Description
Ares Classic Line KAR98k Steel Sniper Rifle with Scope (CLA-003)
The Ares Classic Line CLA-003 is a spring-powered, bolt action replica of the German Karabiner 98k in its sniper configuration, supplied with a ZF 39-style scope and mount. The Kar98k was the standard German service rifle of the Second World War, and scoped examples were used by German snipers throughout the conflict.
Ares’ Classic Line is built for players and collectors who want historical rifles that look and feel right. This version adds the period-style optic to the steel Kar98k, giving a complete sniper rifle for re-enactment, period games and display.
Build and materials
The Classic Line Kar98k is built with heavy metalwork, around 95 per cent of which is stainless steel, finished with a hard-wearing QPQ treatment. The stock is laminated wood, which is strong and stable and gives the rifle the authentic feel of a period service rifle.
How it works
As a spring rifle, it needs no battery and no gas. Working the bolt cocks the spring and chambers a BB; pulling the trigger releases the piston and sends the shot on its way. Because the power comes entirely from the spring, performance stays the same on a frosty winter morning as on a warm summer afternoon, which makes it far more dependable in British weather than a gas-powered bolt action.
An adjustable hop-up lets you tune the backspin on the BB to suit the weight you are using. Start with the hop-up low, fire a few shots and increase it a little at a time until the BB flies flat and true without rising at the end of its flight.
Handling
At around 4.41kg with the scope fitted and 1095mm long, the rifle is substantial and steady to aim. The 20-round magazine gives a deliberate pace of play, and the supplied scope lets you pick out targets more easily at distance; zero it to your hop-up setting before your first game.
Key features
- Spring-powered bolt action
- Replica of the WW2 German Karabiner 98k sniper
- ZF 39-style scope and mount included
- Approx. 95% stainless steel metal parts with QPQ finish
- Laminated wood stock
- Adjustable hop-up
- 20-round magazine
- No battery or gas required
- Supplied with a hard plastic gun case
What’s in the box
- Ares Kar98k spring rifle with scope and mount
- 20-round magazine
- Hard plastic gun case
- User manual
Compatibility
Spare magazines should be the Ares Kar98k magazine made for this rifle. Use good quality, seamless 6mm BBs; heavier, high-grade BBs usually give the most consistent flight from a spring sniper rifle.
Care and maintenance
Wipe the metalwork with a lightly oiled cloth after use, especially after damp games, to keep the finish in good condition, and treat the wooden stock occasionally with a suitable stock oil or wax. Let the rifle dry naturally at room temperature before putting it back in its case.
Never leave the rifle cocked in storage, and avoid dry-firing it repeatedly without BBs, which puts extra stress on the piston and cylinder. Clean the inner barrel with a cleaning rod and a lightly dampened patch from time to time, and use only clean, good quality BBs.
Who is it for?
The CLA-003 suits WW2 re-enactors portraying German snipers, collectors, and players who want a scoped period bolt action that is ready to use out of the box and works in any weather.
Please note: Always wear suitable eye and face protection, and check the power limits and minimum engagement distances at your site before play.
