42 1940 Mauser K98, new condition?
- Thread starter Gerard
- Start date
42 code 1940
Wood super crisp but unsure on metal - possible reblue? Brand new guns are always difficult.
The really weird aspect is the pitting around the crown but the rest of the rifle is pristine (qualified).
Metal looks very black and should have a blue component. I know because I have had actions retanked in modern baths
and its very black - too dark for German wartime production in this period.
Just my thoughts from images. Obviously in hand is the best way to flesh out a rifle and in direct sunlight.
Wood super crisp but unsure on metal - possible reblue? Brand new guns are always difficult.
The really weird aspect is the pitting around the crown but the rest of the rifle is pristine (qualified).
Metal looks very black and should have a blue component. I know because I have had actions retanked in modern baths
and its very black - too dark for German wartime production in this period.
Just my thoughts from images. Obviously in hand is the best way to flesh out a rifle and in direct sunlight.
Turbo Archie
Well-known member
the white stuff is a turn off...
..
..
Gerard
Collector /Militaria Dealer
Amen to that, I can't stand when people do that.
iron bender
750 Press Operator
What does all this say about the wood? If the metal has been reblued, why? What I'm saying is the stock appears mint, why would the metal be in a condition that someone would decide to "fix" it.
I assumed that the photos were distorting the color of the blue somewhat. Light surface rust is visible in several of the photos.
As to why someone would want to reblue the metal of a rifle with a like new stock. I think back in the day shenanigans like this were more common, likely because the rifles weren't seen as being particularly valuable. Think previous owner desiring to make the metal as nice as the wood.
As to why someone would want to reblue the metal of a rifle with a like new stock. I think back in the day shenanigans like this were more common, likely because the rifles weren't seen as being particularly valuable. Think previous owner desiring to make the metal as nice as the wood.
I'm just saying- rifles like this are not common and should be carefully examined. There are countless collectors around the country that refinish guns to make them 100% new condition- I'm not saying this is one, it looks new!
IMVHO, the wood has been carefully cleaned to get that blonde look. I saw a MM byf42 at a show a few years back that looked nearly identical to this (very blonde with crisp markings). The seller said the vet he bought it from had painted the stock to camo it for hunting deer, and he cleaned it off removing the original varnish/whatever underneath as well.
Not sure about the metal.
Not sure about the metal.
Gerard
Collector /Militaria Dealer
Question for more advanced collectors than I- When did Mauser or the stock company start bluing their bayonet mounts? My 1936 and 1939 Mauser bayonet mounts are in a grayish/silver color. Is there a documented regulation as to the finish on the mount? Just curious. On byf 42/43/44s, I know they are blued. If you look at this one, inside the "H" band, it looks unnaturally black. Just curious, it may not be a salient point.
That's a good question. Apparently just before or initially in 1941 or late in 1940 production.
As for the rifle, my clear and unequivocal opinion: Stripped and dipped.
Buddabing. There's a chap out in Kalifornia that did/does similar work. Same methods, so they look alike. Very 80s / early 90s "blond stock 99.9%". They should be displayed with Nagel prints.
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Thank you, exactly my thoughts too. 
