ScaredStupid
AH senior member
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- Apr 18, 2026
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The only other markings I have found are on the bolt handle. Everything else is zilch. I haven't tried removing the scope rail. The last rifle from this batch appeared that something like loctite was used on the scope mount and I wasn't inclined to damage anythingStock looks like a Wby. Action (safety) looks like a Zastava M98 (same as used by Interarms/Whitworth, Daly, Rem 798, but for a bunch of others including earlier military use.) If the bbl is ok, I bet it's a shooter! Fajen also made stocks like that for the M98 (and many appeared as aftermarket mods on Zastava metal.)
M98 with B066 serial number on action
Based on your description, a Mauser M98 action with a B066 serial number (or prefix) typically indicates a specific manufacturer or import batch, often associated with post-WWII commercial models or specific European production runs.
Potential Identifications
- Zastava / Interarms Mark X: Many commercial Mauser 98 actions manufactured by Zastava Arms (formerly in Yugoslavia) and imported by Interarms used letter prefixes for their serial numbers.
- Santa Barbara Actions: Spanish-made Mauser actions, often referred to as "Santa Barbara" actions, frequently featured specific letter-prefix serial numbers (like "Z" or "B") stamped on the right side of the receiver ring.
- Post-War Commercial Builds: Modern sporting rifles built on the M98 action, such as those from J.P. Sauer or custom European shops, sometimes used non-standard alphanumeric sequences to distinguish them from military surplus.
Canadian Gun Nutz +2
How to Verify
To narrow down the exact origin, look for these additional markings:
Are there any other stamps or logos on the top of the receiver ring or the side of the action?
- Proof Marks: Check for small symbols like an eagle, a crown over letters (e.g., "U," "N," or "B"), or a shield. These reveal the country of origin (e.g., German, Belgian, or Spanish proofs).
- Manufacturer Codes: Look for a three-letter code (like "bnz," "dot," or "byf") or a full company name on the top or side of the receiver.
- Import Marks: Tiny laser-etched text (often on the barrel or under the receiver) will list the importer, which can help trace the serial sequence.
Wikipedia +4
