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GERMAN KAR-43 RIFLE
CAL. 8x57 Mauser


Caliber: 8x57 Mauser
System of operation: Gas operated, semi-auto
Length overall: 44.8 inches
Barrel length: 22 inches
Feed device: 10 round, detachable box magazine
Sight:Front: Hooded
Sight:Rear: Tangent-Leaf
Weight: 8.5 lb without magazine
Muzzle velocity: Approximately 2460 f.p.s.

Made by Carl Walther Waffenfabrik, Zella-Mehlis, Thuringen (code "ac"), Berlin-Lübecker Maschinenfabrik ("duv", "qve") and Gustloff-Werke, Weimar ("bcd") Adopted on 30th April 1943 to replace the unsastisfactory Gew 41, but retaining the breech-locking system of its predecessor, this rifle had a conventional port-and-piston gas system adapted from the Soviet Tokarev SVT. A detachable box magazine protruded beneath the stock ahead of the trigger bow. (Rifles of the World, John Walther 1998)


8x57 mm clip.


Kar-43 Semi-Auto Rifle.


Another view of the Kar-43.


Close-up of action.


Another close-up of action.


Top view of the bolt.


Bolt in the open position.


Close-up of the magazine.


Close-up of the triggerguard.


Close-up of the scope mounting base machined into the receiver. These rifle
could be fitted with a scope, but only a small number were actually used as snipers..


Close-up of the Buttstock.


Close-up of the rear sight.


Close-up of the nosecap, note the absence of bayonet mounting lugs.

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