An exceptionally fine example of an early transitional model K98k manufactured in 1942 before J.P. Sauer & Son, along with other German military small arms manufacturers at the time, simplified serializing and acceptance as a general rationalization of German manufacturing after production requirements increased with the failure of Operation Barbarossa. For J.P. Sauer & Son this simplification occurred somewhere roughly in the later "d" and early "e" suffix serial range. Features hooded blade front and range adjustable tangent rear sights, "ce" and "42" codes marked on top of the receiver ring, and early production milled components. The barrel is marked "73 42 GS" with three "eagle/37" proofs, while the right side of the receiver ring is marked with a "eagle/359" proof. With matching "4282" serial numbers marked on the barrel, bolt handle, cocking shroud, striker, safety, rear sight, rear sight slider, rear sight base, band retaining spring, front band, trigger housing, and magazine floor plate along with matching "82" partials on the bolt release, follower, and extractor. Fitted with a smooth laminated handguard and buttstock with cupped buttplate, Heer stamp, and matching "4282/d" serial stamped on the underside. Includes a "bad/1942" marked dark leather sling.

Exceptionally fine, retaining 80% original blue finish with slight fading and plum coloration on the receiver, scattered minor spotting, minor edge wear, smooth brown patina, and well defined proofs. The laminate stock is very fine as re-oiled with limited minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.