M98 Value ?

[rowdy]

I believe I have been shown a M98 sako mauser in 8 x 60. I haven't seen it yet, and the pictures are not very close up so I haven't seen any stamp markings.

The vendor says that it is in good shape with a very good barrel. I believe that 30-06 cases can be used for ammunition so I think that base would be covered, but I'm wondering what value the gun would be worth ? I know it is rare, but how rare ?

As always any and all opinions welcome.

Rowdy

 

[bloorooster]

Rowdy, from what I can find, there are a couple 8x60 designations. The 8x60mm has a .318" (8.07mm) bullet while the 8x60mm-S has a .323" (8.20mm) These differences are due to the interbellum period between WWI and WWII and the Treaty of Versailles, which did not allow military firearms and ammo to civilians in Germany...To a collector, this difference may add or detract from the guns value I suppose, but to the shooter it will be important to know which is which.

I feel any pre-L61R rifle with a Sako Barrel and markings using the Mauser 98 action in very fine condition should price close to a L61R of the same condition and vintage, with the rare caliber chambering adding to that 10-20%...in my book~Bloo

 

[rowdy]

Bloo,

Thank you. I've done some research myself into the variations of bullet size and I think that the Sako was chambered for the .318 not the S - bore .323. If I purchased the gun to be on the safe side it would go straight to my gunsmith for a proper inspection and sizing of the chamber and bore anyway.

Your thoughts on the pricing also make sense to me.

I'm waiting on better pictures at the moment before any decisions are made and bank accounts raided.

Many Thanks

Rowdy