I just picked up a Mauser 98k at Sarco. It certainly is nothing more than shooter grade, which is fine, because that's all I want it for. There are 2 things that I could use some of your collective expertise with.

 

1) What is the best way to clean this guy? He feels pretty greasy, and I guess that is from the cosmoline. I don't need to go crazy and completely refinish it to bring it back to like new condition, but I would like to not have to wash my hands after I touch it either.

 

2) I've relegated myself to the fact that I'm going to have to deal with corrosive ammo. What is the easiest method to clean the rifle, with that in mind?

 

Much thanks in advance.

Where are you located, i am in warren county (blairstown) and willing to "hook a brother up." If you are driving distance, bring her by and i will show you the ins and outs of mausers and even headspace it for you. I am a major mauser collector and love the smell of cosmoline-LOL

I'm in West Orange, about an hour from Blairstown. I'm gearing up to start a new job, so I'm busy the next few weeks, but once things settled, I'd love to come by pick up any tips you're willing to share!

well, for the metal parts use this method. http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting/cosmoline/pdf/cosmoline.pdf

 

and for the stock, http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting2006/lowheatmethod/index.asp

I just take all metal off the stock and set it on the dash of my truck in the summer. The heat will bleed most of the cosmo from the stock and bring it right to the surface. Just go out every half hour or so and wipe it off with a rag.

 

and for corrosive ammo. http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting/corrosive/index.asp Just use a water based cleaner(heck i use boiling water) to take care of the salts. Once this is done clean like you normally would. It really isn't that bad and i have been shooting corrosive for years and have not had a hint of damage.

 

Lastly the best place for ammo right now is: http://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/Romanian_8mm_Mauser_FMJ.html

Here is a yugo mauser i am building for fun. So far it is fully glass bed, heavily modified trigger and i put a vintage weaver scope on it for my version of a sniper.

Dont write off the shooter grades, they tend to clean up and end up being highly accurate!

Very nice yugo USN!!! I really gotsta get me one of those. FYI, check with one of the more seasoned gunsmiths on here, but I think you have the bolt in the wrong place!

 

I know I know, it is just to prop up the gun for the photo, I was only joking for those who think I'm serious.

Very nice yugo USN!!! I really gotsta get me one of those. FYI, check with one of the more seasoned gunsmiths on here, but I think you have the bolt in the wrong place!

 

I know I know, it is just to prop up the gun for the photo, I was only joking for those who think I'm serious.

 

Thanks, Chad. Now I have to clean the coffee off my monitor that was sprayed when I read (the non small print part of) your comment

If you don't mind me asking, what does Sarco get for one of those?

If you don't mind me asking, what does Sarco get for one of those?

Most likely $100.

USN, this is mainly aimed at you. I broke down and cleaned all the metal parts, and I steamed a whole bunch of cosmo out of the stock. Reassembly led to the following problems which are driving me nuts

 

1) I'm having a hell of a hard time reinstalling the rear sight leaf. The spring just won't let me reinstall the leaf

 

2) I mistook the rear sight screw for the forward locking screw, causing it to break, leaving the shaft of the screw in the trigger guard assembly. needle nose pliers just won't get this sucker out. So I have a forward locking screw, but the hole for it to go in is clogged with the shaft of the wrong screw. I need to buy a replacement rear sight screw. I think I'll just have to buy a new rear sight screw and trigger guard assembly. Unless the forward locking screw isn't really that important. Thoughts?

 

Aside from these fairly minor problems, disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly went pretty well...considering this is my first time doing any of this stuff.

One last try and I got the rear sight installed. Now my only issues are the screws in the trigger guard.

 

Thanks in advance.

 

Oh, Sarco charges depending on condition. I paid 200 for a better one. The handguard is cracked a little bit, but the bore is good and the internal mechanisms all looked good.

Oh, Sarco OVERcharges depending on condition. I paid 200 for a better one.

 

Fixed that for you.

I'd love to get a Mauser, but don't know how to check one out.

yeah, they definitely overcharged me a bit. Lesson learned.

I'd love to get a Mauser, but don't know how to check one out.

You name the shop, time, and date anytime in the next 2 1/2 weeks, and I am willing to help you out.

I'd love to get a Mauser, but don't know how to check one out.

You name the shop, time, and date anytime in the next 2 1/2 weeks, and I am willing to help you out.

 

I'm looking for a Mauser, as well. :mrgreen:

I'm looking for a Mauser, as well. :mrgreen:

http://www.njgunforums.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=50&t=2419

Richie I have decided that we just need to meed up for some range time!LOL

I'll be joining Cherry Ridge on September 6th, if you'd like to meet up then.

 

I've been a guest there 3 times already and I'd feel like a complete moron if I spent another $25.

I'd love to get a Mauser, but don't know how to check one out.

You name the shop, time, and date anytime in the next 2 1/2 weeks, and I am willing to help you out.

 

Thanks for the offer. Do you know of the best place to get one? I wouldn't even know where to look.

I am heading to the gun show in Allentown this weekend, was thinking of picking one up anything I should look for and a price range?

There is a slight possibility that i am going to the show. Maybe meet up there if i can make it. If not check this out. http://www.njgunforums.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=50&t=1915