K31 ( Karabiner ) Swiss Rifle. (f 378) SOLD

 A Good K31 Post War Swiss Rifle

 A K31 just as it should be with fully matching numbers.  The matching serial number is 919504 which indicates production in 1948.  Most obviously the serial number is stamped into the action side wall and the bright finished bolt.  This is the redesigned rifle that replaced the  M1911 karbine with a shortened action.  Many advantages were purposely designed into the rifle but to the infantryman the best development was the reduction in weight married with the increase in accuracy.  On the well blued receiver is the Swiss national emblem.  The sights are graduated in 100 meter increments from 100 to 1500.  The rifle is chambered in 7.5 x 55 Swiss.

The rifle measures 43.1/2 in overall length with a barrel of 25.3/4″ which is actually longer than its predesesors.  The action was redesigned by a Major Furrer where he made the bolt length shorter and therefore eliminated the head shake that could occur in the M1911.  This straight pull stayed in service until 1957 when it was replaced by the new generation Sturmgewehr.  Its fantastic accuracy keeping it at the top for all those years until increased rate of fire took over as the primary concern.

This rifle is in wonderful condition and contains a clue to its previous history in the normal place.  It was discovered on removal of  the steel butt-plate; the owners tag is still in place. (see photo)  Also reassuring is the discovery that all the woodwork is stamped with the same serial number.  It is interesting to note that the date shown on the tag is earlier than the introduction of the rifle.  It could be a date of birth or the date the rifle man inserted his original ticket, which means it could have been transferred over from a M1911.  Also the markings are in pencil which could mean they could change details like rank or even serial number?   (Any more information would be gratefully received)Externally, the only easily visible marking on the beechwood stock, is a Swiss shield on the opposite side of the butt-stock to the rear sling mount.  Condition of the stock is fine, it shows the normal amount of usage dents etc but is not badly damaged or distressed.

The K31 is fitted with a 6 shot detachable magazine adjacent to the trigger guard.  The foresight guard includes a sliding blade which when moved, effects windage, within the guarding “ears” of the block.  The front band has mounted on it a stacking hook and bayonet lug.  Bolt release is mounted on the rear RHS of the action. London Proofed 2014.

What would one expect from Swiss Engineering !

Stock No’  f 378

£ 565.   (Sold)

Comments Off on K31 ( Karabiner ) Swiss Rifle. (f 378) SOLD