The Mauser Kar98 AZ, also known as the Karabiner 98 AZ, was a variant of the Karabiner 98k rifle used by the German military during World War II. The "AZ" designation stands for "Aufpflanz- und Zielvorrichtung," which translates to "attached bayonet and sighting device" in English.
The Kar98 AZ was essentially a modified version of the standard Kar98k rifle, with the addition of a bayonet lug and a modified front sight assembly to accommodate the attachment of a bayonet. This modification allowed the rifle to mount a bayonet directly to the barrel for close-quarters combat.
The Kar98 AZ was primarily used by rear-line troops, such as support units and occupation forces, rather than frontline combat units. It provided these troops with a weapon that could be used for both ranged combat and as a melee weapon when necessary.
In terms of specifications, the Kar98 AZ was very similar to the standard Kar98k. It typically fired the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge, had a five-round internal magazine, and featured a bolt-action mechanism. The addition of the bayonet lug and modified front sight assembly distinguished it from the standard Kar98k.
While the Kar98 AZ saw some use during World War II, it was not as widely produced or used as the standard Kar98k rifle. After the war, many of these rifles were either captured or destroyed, making them relatively rare collector's items today.
5 окт 2024
