7/16/20 - This is an excellent example of a rare Steyr K98 purported to be part of an SS contract order fulfilled at Gusen camp. From Karem's book on the 98k, these rifles were coded 'bnz 43' on the receiver but assembled in early 1944. The stocks were unmarked on the side and built with the oversize 'bnz 43' marked receiver V7 Gusen marking. The majority of the rifle was built from Radom, indicating that perhaps the SS parts production at the Gusen camp was unable to keep up with the 10,000 rifle per month production rate. The right side of the receiver has no waffenamt which is typical for receivers made at Gusen with the 1943 date. The bolt is matching and numbered in the SS contract style with 4 digit serial on bolt root and safety. The balance of the bolt components are unmarked and unnumbered. At this point, all parts coming from Radom were marked E/77 so blank components were made at Gusen. The front and rear bands are milled and unmarked, which is correct. Rear sight components are matching numbered and Radom made. Barrel has WaA623 proof for Steyr. Floorplate and trigger guard are E/77 marked. Stock appears to have an E/623 inspection stamp on underside. The finish on the metal parts is excellent only a couple minor areas of pinpricking and a bit of finish loss on the trigger guard and bolt release latch. Mint bore. Original sling, sight hood, cleaning rod are all present.
