I looked at a K98 today dated 42 byf at about 85% blueing.The gun looked Ok but the butt plate on the stock had a code bpr I do not think that was Ok,he was asking $700.00. What do you think about it, Thanks
"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to relive it" Santayana
I'm not a K98 expert, but I believe the subcontracted buttplate with bpr is fine for a 42 byf. For $700.00 I'd expect all matching number and no import markings.
Timboo is correct, butt plates were commonly a subcontracted part. As he stated it is significant to determine if it is all matching - metal AND wood. There should be serial numbers in the barrel channel of the stock and the handguard. Also, (perhaps as late as 42) the serial is usually stamped on the "keel" of the stock just below the base of the pistol grip. Be careful - with prices now over 1k for a nice matching K98 there are more and more forced matches.....Argh!
I would say the blueing is 75-85% which is not that great for a weapon that millions were made.Have these gone up like Lugers have in the last few years.
"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to relive it" Santayana