Since my last post I have re-read my book "Bolt Action Rifles" by Frank de Haas. In his book he indicates that 2 small ring military Mausers were produced a 33/40 and a 98a for use on carbines. The 98a (WW1) was further lightened to produce the 33/40. After looking at the pic. the trigger guard is the same on the 98a as on the rifle I just purchased. FWIW --- John303.