98k-Damast

The Boker 98K-Damast brings an iconic chapter of German military history vividly to life. The world-famous Karabiner 98k was introduced in 1935 as the standard service rifle of the German armed forces and remained the most widely used infantry rifle until the end of WW II in 1945. This bolt-action rifle was based on the proven Mauser System 98, whose locking mechanism had already served as the standard rifle system of the German Army during WW I. The origins of this system date back even further. In response to the introduction of low-smoke ammunition in France, the German Army initiated development of a new cartridge as early as 1887, along with a tender for a suitable rifle. The Prussian Rifle Testing Commission selected the design of Franz-Andreas and Peter-Paul Mauser, whose earlier Model 71 had already demonstrated exceptional engineering and craftsmanship. Officially adopted in 1898, the Mauser locking system introduced groundbreaking features, including a three-position wing safety, a generously dimensioned non-rotating extractor with controlled-round feed, and dual front locking lugs. Renowned for its reliability, robustness, and safety, the Mauser system remains the most widely produced bolt-action mechanism in history and is still manufactured worldwide for civilian use today. The Boker 98K-Damast incorporates characteristic design elements of the original 98k bayonet and features a distinctive Damascus blade forged from authentic Mauser carbine barrel steel. The impressive 80-layer Damascus, hand-forged by Chad Nichols in the expressive Ripple pattern, gives the blade remarkable depth and movement. The blade’s pronounced ricasso, classic nail nick, and secure back lock ensure confident and intuitive operation. Handle scales crafted from locally sourced walnut wood echo the diagonally grooved texture of the original bayonet grip, offering a secure and comfortable hold. Beneath the steel bolster, the transverse groove used on the original bayonet for lateral cleaning of the cleaning rod shaft has been faithfully reinterpreted as a subtle design detail. Handcrafted in the Boker Knife Manufactory in Solingen, this exceptional collector’s knife is presented with a premium floating display, a certificate of authenticity, and an individual serial number, underscoring its historical significance and exclusivity.