bcd K98 in '45...

[Bob in OH]

I have a decent 5 digit, sn 34xxx, bcd4 that likely was assembled in '45. I am curious what the collectors here say about what Gustloff was assembling in '45. More specifically, is this phosphated K98 a '45 made gun...

I know what Mrfarb says and others... but curious when '45 started at Gustloff based on the experience of others... Your explanation of 44/45 production would be helpful...TIA

Bob

[Hugh W. Brock]

bcd 45 markings

Receiver markings are put on early on in the manufacture of the receiver and it might well be several months before the complete rifle is produced. Your bcd 4 receiver could theoretically have been assembled in 1945, but there is no way to tell for sure. Serial range might give an idea of when it was finished. Also, the Germans were not meticulous about first in-first out in parts usage. The last bcd receivers are marked bcd 45. If assembled at Gustloff, they have Gustloff acceptance marks and light gray phosphate finish.