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Wehrmannsgewehr, GEW 98 Target Rifle

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While on leave between recalls, German armed force reservists were required to keep up their shooting skills. Many local clubs and ranges were equipped with designated marksman rifles such as the following Wehrmannsgewehr (werhmann's = serviceman's, gewehr = rifle).

The rifles were generally built on the GEW 98 action in the 8.15X46r target caliber (Normal-Patrone), with 170g lead bullets. The ranges were typically 100 to 200 meters. Most examples had the magazine plugged, and were single shot. They were also commercially available on a limited basis for sporting and hunting, for which a semi-jacketed soft nose round was available.

The only outwardly visible markings on mine are the nitro proof and barrel serial number. The metal is splendidly polished under the deep rust bluing, and retains 95-plus% finish. The walnut stock is in very good condition, with a few expected scratches and dings. It is a commercial offering, as it retains the magazine spring and follower. It was likely built by Udo Anschütz of Zella-Mehlis (town of Walther Factory Arsenal) in the mid to late 1930's. No import marks, indicating a post-WWII GI war trophy return.

Barrel underside markings are:

BL. G for Blei Geschoss (Lead Bullet)
Crowns over G, U, G for German commercial proofs
7,6mm for land diameter
46 for cartridge OAL
7 37 for date of Nitro Proofing
2 for assembly number (also appears on receiver, stock and handguard channels
450 and 11ar are unknown to me at this time.

Left side rear sight base has extended hash marks for the 6, 7, and 8 graduations, for 100, 150 and 200 meter range distances.

Time for some pics. Enjoy, and thanks for looking.


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Just a hunch, but it is possible that the bolt was a special order.

The bolt head is not correct for the smaller rimmed round. It is a standard K98 bolt head.
 
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