Adventures in Surplus: Mid-war "CE44" German Kar 98k

Published on June 5, 2020
Duration: 9:20

This review delves into a mid-war 'CE44' German Kar 98k manufactured by J.P. Sauer & Sohn in 1944. It highlights late-war production simplifications like stamped barrel bands and discusses outsourced receivers from Feima. The video also notes common surplus characteristics such as non-matching parts, like a Mauser-made floor plate on this example.

Quick Summary

The 'CE44' marking on a German Kar 98k indicates it was manufactured by J.P. Sauer & Sohn in 1944. Late-war production featured simplifications like stamped barrel bands, and parts like the magazine floor plate might be non-matching replacements from other manufacturers, such as Mauser ('BYF').

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: CE44 Kar 98k
  2. 00:27Manufacturer Codes: J.P. Sauer & Sohn (CE)
  3. 01:41Late-War Simplifications: Semi-Kriegsmodell
  4. 03:45Component Sourcing & Inspection Marks
  5. 06:10Non-Matching Parts: Mauser Floor Plate
  6. 08:13Collector Resources: Kar 98k Books

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 'CE44' marking on a German Kar 98k signify?

The 'CE' code indicates the rifle was manufactured by J.P. Sauer & Sohn, and the '44' signifies the year of production, 1944. This particular rifle shows late-war production characteristics.

What were some late-war production simplifications on the Kar 98k?

Late-war Kar 98ks, like this 'CE44', featured 'semi-Kriegsmodell' simplifications. These included stamped and welded barrel bands, though they often retained barrel band springs and bayonet lugs.

Why might a surplus Kar 98k have non-matching parts?

Non-matching parts are common on surplus rifles due to wartime replacements, post-war refurbishment, or general wear and tear. For example, this rifle had a Mauser-made floor plate, indicating a replacement.

Where can I find detailed information on Kar 98k variations?

For in-depth technical details on Kar 98k variations, collector resources like Richard Law's 'Backbone of the Wehrmacht' and Bruce Karem/Michael Steves' 'Karabiner 98k' Volume 2A are highly recommended.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →