Deactivated WW1 German Army Gew88 Rifle

Now becoming increasingly rare an early production German Gew 88 rifle. (Gewehr modell 1888) or “Komissiongewehr” (Commission rifle). Manufactured by Danzig, it is dated 1890 with German Imperial army acceptance markings. It was developed by a group of officers from GewehrPrufungsKomission (GPK, or Rifle testing commission of German army). This rifle is modified and adapted for the 7,9mm S-patrone ammunition, and is appropriately stamped with letter “S”. The G88 was eventually replaced by the Gew98, but remained in service until the end of the First World War. The struck-out barrel band regimental markings read R.R.B.12.163 which we beleive is an abbreviation for Reserve Infantry Regiment, 12th Battalion, weapon number 163.

 

Of considerable interest, the "13 F" stamped on the butt stock plate is that of a repair depot. These depots were located very close the front lines during the Great War making it easier to transport damaged rifles to and fro. It is also documented that depot repaired rifles were only sent to front line troops. This proves that this rifle actually saw active service during WW1, and on more than one occasion!!! A great piece of WWI history and very rare find.

 

They were also issued during WWII. Deactivated with a working action it can be cocked, stripped and dry fired.