Cal. 8x57 (8mm Mauser). S# 4021A. Bbl. 19 1/4". Blade front sight w/ protective ears. Tangent rear sight graduated to 1000m. The VZ-33 was a shortened & lightened Czech Mauser. They were primarily issued to the Czech Gendarmerie (CETN) & the Customs officials (FS). This model was also the basis for the famed German G33/40 mountain carbine. This example is the rarer FS variant w/ only an estimated 5300 being produced. Receiver top has Czech lion w/ cross & a "7.88" marking likely added by the Germans. Left side of receiver has a 1935 dated Czech lion acceptance stamp & serial number. It is well known that many Czech weapons were used by the German military during WW2 including rifles, pistols, machine guns & tanks. This VZ-33 carbine is no doubt a German reworked example. Bolt is an original VZ-33 bolt that was blued & renumbered in a manner similar to K98k rifles. The follower has been modified to hold open on an empty mag which is a German trait. Stock disc has original matching number. Floorplate & follower are also period renumbered to match in a German font. Walnut stock set w/ bottom & left side sling provisions. Stock does not appear to have any discernable German depot markings. Leather sling & cleaning rod present. UNTATTACHED ACCESSORIES: original 3 piece cleaning rod is found in butt, the are very seldom encountered. CONDITION: stock set shows some scarring from improper band removal, scattered dings & handling wear. Metal retains 50% German depot reworked blue w/ overall fading to brown, some edge wear & a few spots of light oxidation. Action functions properly. Bright near excellent bore. PROVENANCE: Collection of Dr. Fred Novy, ASAC. (24-1832/MJC). CURIO. $3,500-4,500.