BACKGROUND: The K98 rifle evolved from the WWI Mauser Gew 98 model with slight modifications. The main modification was the shortening of the rifle. Due to restrictions of the Versailles Treaty the K98, wasn’t actual produced in Germany until 1934, although the Mauser company had licenced out production rights to other European countries. Originally the K98's were constructed with good quality walnut stocks and tooled steel fittings but as the war progressed these were replaced by cheaper beech wood and ply wood stocks and stamped metal fittings. The forward barrel wooden grip was secured around the top of the barrel and on to the bottom wooden grip by a metal band.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Roughly, 7 3/8" long, tapering, mid-war, carved and lathed, laminated beech wood forward, top, wooden barrel protective cover/grip for the K98. The grip is roughly, 1 3/8" wide at the back end tapering down to, 7/8" wide at the forward end. The bottom, interior, of the grip has a lathed, semi-circular cut-out to fit the contours of the rifle. The top forward and rear edges of the grip each have a stepped down ridge to accommodate the metal retaining and sling securing bands. Serial number "40592" to the inside. Nice K98 fitting in overall very good condition.