This was done by crudely scribbling the rifles serial number from the receiver on various parts with an electro pencil. If the rifle functioned with no issues, it was then forced matched. After this process the rifles were reassembled with no regard to matching numbers, and tested for functionality. Most likely these parts were scrapped too. For some reason the capture screws, cleaning rod, and sight hood were disregarded. The waffen nampt eagles that retained a swastika were almost always defaced. Every functioning metal part was re blued a dark almost paint like finish, and the stock/hand guard was crudely brushed with red shellac. The broken parts were separated from the functioning ones, and I assume the broken parts were most likely scrapped. Rifles were broken down in batches to their basic components, and inspected for functionality. So instead of repairing each broken rifle, a total refurbishment process was ordered for every rifle. Obviously not every rifle captured from the war would be in functioning condition. These rifles sat in storage for at least ten years after the war untouched, and it wasn't until the height of the cold war when they would be pulled out. These were all acquired from the vast operations, and battles on the eastern front. Among the weapon spoils they obtained from Germany were millions of K98 rifles. After the second world war, or as the Russians refer to as "The great patriotic war" the soviet union ended up with TONS of German WWII weaponry, and equipment. Probably the most common, and talked about capture K98 is the Russian capture. Once I announce that the guide is finished, comment as you please. I kindly ask that no one comment as im going to be adding to this guide in sections.
I hope this guide will be of use to other collectors!
I will also give all the history behind each example too. In this guide I will break down each example by nation, and show the key characteristics they exhibit. Almost every nation refurbished, or modified these rifles in their own unique way. These nations acquired their K98s from German forces leaving them behind during WW2, or capturing them during combat with German forces. 'captured' is a term given to certain K98 rifles that show evidence of being captured/surrendered at one point in time, and used by a nation other then Germany. The most common alternative is to buy a 'captured' K98 rifle. Because of this, collectors like my self are forced to go down other avenues to get a K98 rifle. As we all know a 100% matching 'Vet bring back' K98 rifle can command premium prices in today's market. I thought I would create a guide to help other collectors identify the many types of German K98 rifle captures.