Karabiner 88

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	Weapon: Karabiner 88 Type: Carbine Country of Origin: Germany Year Adopted: 1888 Caliber: 7.92x57mm Action: Bolt-Action Overall Length (mm): 945.0 Weight (kg): 3.00 Effective Range (m): 600

The Karabiner 88 (Kar 88) was a carbine version of the German Gewehr 88, introduced in 1888 and chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser. The rifle was part of the German Army's shift to modern small-bore, smokeless powder firearms, following the French introduction of the Lebel rifle. The Kar 88 featured a Mannlicher-style magazine and was intended for use by cavalry and artillery troops who required a shorter, more maneuverable weapon than the standard infantry rifle. While it was an improvement over previous black-powder designs, the Kar 88 was criticized for its complex bolt mechanism and susceptibility to jamming. Around 400,000 units were produced before it was replaced by the far superior Mauser 98 design. Despite its flaws, the Karabiner 88 was a significant step forward in rifle development and saw service in the German military and other nations' forces at the turn of the century.

Innovation and Cunning: Weaponry of Imperial Germany Part 1: The Rifles

Innovation and Cunning: Weaponry of Imperial Germany Part 1: The Rifles