This is a good example of an WWI German Gewehr rifle, that was converted into a sniper rifle. These WWI rifles all started out as standard service rifles that were modified/converted into a sniper configuration by the addition of a set of double claw scope bases and scope. The primary difference of these WWI GEW snipers is the scope manufacturer and type of scope bases used; either the scope bases/claws were both mounted directly on top of the receiver or the rear base/set were off-set to the left side of the rear receiver, as in this case. The top of the receiver is covered by the front scope base, so we can't identify the exact manufacturer however it has standard Crown over script letter proofs on the right side of the receiver and top of the barrel. The left side of the receiver has the Imperial Eagle proof and the receiver sidewall is marked "GEW 98". The scope was made by Emil Busch and is marked "EMIL BUSCH A-G/RATHENOW/VISAR 2 3/4X GEWEHR No. 1998". The stock and handguard are the correct wartime versions with the finger grooves on the sides. The right side of the stock has the double Crown Proof over a letter. The same proofs are on the lower lever of the butt stock below the sling swivel and again in the pistol grip area. This rifle has the early milled upper band and the thin pattern milled lower band. The trigger guard and floor plate are the correct milled parts. It is complete with an original WWI leather sling and reproduction cleaning rod.

Good with 30% of the faded blue on the barrel, barrel bands and trigger guard floor plate. The barrel finish has turned a dull dark brown patina color from war time use with the remaining components having a silvery patina and showing some very fine erosion overall. The receiver and bolt are still silver, with the side of the front and rear receiver ring and front base showing some very fine light pin-prick pitting. It appears that the rear base at one time was removed and reinstalled as it's not soldered down. The scope retains approximately 95% of a arsenal refinished rust blue as there is fine pin-prick pitting on the underside of the rear eye-piece and it has clear optics. The stock is in very good condition having been cleaned and sanded, but it still have visible proofs and cartouches. The rifle has matching parts except for the scope, stock and handguard.