May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/10/2024
Even as Allied forces pushed into Germany in the Spring of 1945 production of the K43 continued into April with various time and resource saving production measures. This rifle was produced in the final Walther production block among the last few thousand produced; the highest known example listed in Weaver's "Hitler's Garands" is "7688d". Unthreaded barrel marked on the underside stamped with "dtk' manufacture mark and "45" date. As is seen on other latewar examples the front sight was left unfinished. Gas tube numbered "6186" in electropencil. Crudely forged double guide rail receiver stamped with WaA359 proof, "K43" designation and "ac / 45" code. Matching late style bolt carrier without hold open latch. Stamped dust cover. Red glue laminate stock and forend, correctly unnumbered. K43 magazine marked "gcb". Complete with green muzzle cover, leather sling, and manual. CONDITION: Very fine overall, appears unissued. Bountiful amounts of original arsenal finishes are retained throughout with some mild thinning on the bottom metal and some other mild wear. Stock has light scattered marks. Magazine has heavy freckling. Excellent mirror bore. Rifle appears unfired and was very likely a GI trophy taken directly from the Walther factory when it was liberated April 9, 1945 by the US 11th Armored and 90th Infantry. An outstanding example that would be very difficult to improve on.