Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in classic military surplus firearms. The American Tactical Yugo M48A 7.9x57mm Mauser Rifle is a reliable bolt-action rifle known for its robust construction and historical significance. This rifle offers a practical solution for target shooting and hunting. Available now for $699.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the American Tactical Yugo M48A?
| Product Type | Bolt-Action Rifle |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 7.9x57mm Mauser (8mm Mauser) |
| Material | Steel Receiver, Barrel, and Action; Wood Stock |
| Manufacturing | Yugoslavian (Zastava Arms) |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Oiled Wood |
| Hardness/Quality | Military-grade steel, built for durability |
| Compatibility | Standard 7.9x57mm Mauser ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Manual bolt-action operation, fixed internal magazine |
| Weight | Approximately 8.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: ~43.5 inches; Barrel Length: ~23.2 inches |
| Country of Origin | Yugoslavia |
| Condition | Used Military Surplus (Good to Very Good) |
| SKU | ATI-M48A-79X57 |
What are the key features of this Yugo M48A?
The American Tactical Yugo M48A 7.9x57mm Mauser Rifle is a piece of history, built on the proven Mauser K98 action. These rifles were produced in Yugoslavia post-WWII and are known for their robust construction and reliability. They retain many features of the original German K98, with some minor modifications. The 7.9x57mm Mauser cartridge is a capable round for hunting medium to large game, and it’s a classic for target shooting.
- Authentic Military Surplus: Each rifle carries the marks of its history, offering a genuine piece of military firearms heritage.
- Proven Mauser Action: The M48A utilizes a strong, reliable bolt-action design, renowned for its simplicity and durability.
- 7.9x57mm Mauser Caliber: A powerful and effective cartridge, suitable for a variety of shooting applications, including hunting deer and hogs.
- Solid Wood Stock: The classic wood stock provides a traditional feel and appearance, built to withstand field conditions.
- Fixed Internal Magazine: A 5-round internal box magazine, loaded via stripper clips or single rounds.
- Iron Sights: Equipped with robust adjustable iron sights, maintaining historical accuracy and functionality.
Who is the American Tactical Yugo M48A 7.9x57mm Mauser Rifle for?
This rifle appeals to a specific segment of the firearms community. It’s not a modern sporting rifle, but it serves its purpose well for those who appreciate its unique characteristics.
Buy it if:
- ✅ You are a collector of military surplus firearms and appreciate the historical significance of the M48A.
- ✅ You enjoy target shooting with classic bolt-action rifles and want to experience the Mauser action.
- ✅ You are looking for a reliable and powerful rifle for hunting medium to large game within reasonable ranges.
- ✅ You appreciate the craftsmanship and robust build quality of Cold War-era firearms.
- ✅ You are comfortable with the 7.9x57mm Mauser cartridge and its recoil characteristics.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You are looking for a lightweight, modern hunting rifle with advanced optics mounting options (see our modern hunting rifles for alternatives).
- ❌ You prefer semi-automatic operation or high-capacity magazines.
- ❌ You are sensitive to recoil or prefer calibers with less felt recoil.
- ❌ You are not interested in military surplus firearms and their associated wear and tear.
How does the Yugo M48A compare to other Mauser variants?
When considering military surplus Mauser rifles, the Yugo M48A holds its own. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | American Tactical Yugo M48A | Cheap Import K98 (e.g., Russian Capture) | Premium Original K98 (e.g., German WWII) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Military-grade steel, dense hardwood stock | Often mixed materials, possibly refurbished parts | High-quality German steel, walnut or laminate stock |
| Quality | Very good, robust, built for service | Variable, can range from fair to good after refurbishment | Excellent, original factory fit and finish |
| Compatibility | Standard 7.9x57mm Mauser ammo, K98 accessories with minor fitting | Standard 7.9x57mm Mauser ammo, original K98 parts may require fitting | Standard 7.9x57mm Mauser ammo, original K98 accessories |
| Shipping | From Wichita, KS via FFL | Varies by importer/seller | Varies by seller, often specialized FFLs |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, designed for military use, easily maintained | Can be long, but refurbishment quality varies | Very long, if properly maintained |
| Price | $699.00 | ~$400-$600 | ~$1,500+ (collector grade) |
The M48A offers a balance of quality, historical value, and affordability, often presenting a better condition than many Russian Capture K98s without the collector premium of an original German K98.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Yugo M48A
Is the 7.9x57mm Mauser (8mm Mauser) cartridge still available?
Yes, 7.9x57mm Mauser ammunition is still produced by several manufacturers, including Prvi Partizan (PPU), S&B, and others. It’s generally available at most well-stocked gun stores and online retailers. We often have it in stock or can help you find it.
Can I mount a scope on the Yugo M48A?
Mounting a scope on a Yugo M48A typically requires permanent modifications to the receiver, such as drilling and tapping. There are some scout scope mounts that utilize the rear sight base, but these are generally non-permanent and offer limited eye relief. For traditional scope mounting, expect gunsmith work.
What is the difference between an M48 and an M48A?
The M48A is a slightly simplified version of the original M48, primarily in its manufacturing process. The M48A utilized more stamped parts compared to the milled parts of the earlier M48, making production more efficient. Functionally, they are very similar.
Is the Yugo M48A good for hunting?
Absolutely. The 7.9x57mm Mauser cartridge is a potent round, effective on deer, hogs, and even larger game like elk with proper bullet selection. The M48A’s robust action is reliable in field conditions, making it a capable hunting rifle for those who appreciate classic firearms.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from a Yugo M48A?
Accuracy can vary with surplus rifles, but a well-maintained Yugo M48A with a good bore can typically achieve 2-4 MOA (minutes of angle) with appropriate ammunition. Some examples can perform better. It’s a military rifle, designed for reliability and combat effectiveness, not sub-MOA precision.
Where can I buy military surplus rifles online?
You can buy military surplus rifles, including the American Tactical Yugo M48A 7.9x57mm Mauser Rifle, from Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We ship firearms to your local FFL dealer for transfer.
What is the typical condition of these surplus rifles?
Our American Tactical Yugo M48A rifles are military surplus and will show signs of use, including cosmetic wear on the stock and metal parts. We grade them as Good to Very Good condition, meaning they are fully functional with a serviceable bore, but expect character marks from their service life.
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