Inhereted 1912 98a in need of a minor restoral need advice

[pdmayton]

Hello all, new to forum. Two years ago while serving in the military my grandfather left me a 1912 Mauser 98a with matching serial numbers. I love restoring things, and shooting but I have no experience restoring rifles and indeed have no idea what I'm doing. I have spent many hours using Rem Oil on everything (was afraid of taking apart the bolt carrier assembly). I spent an hour or two cleaning the bore with the standard copper brushes, oil, cleaning patches but it still looks dirty but no more carbon coming off (almost none anyway) but I don't think there is any pitting in the bore, just looks dirty. The stock has been broke at some point in it's life but it looks like it was repaired well with brass pins. There are dark spots on the metal but virtually no rust, I would like to clean this up but can't seem to do anything more to it (Nevr Dull?). I suspect the wood is dehydrated to based on how loose the barrel fits around the stock. Unfortunately the weapon is missing the stacking hook (which I can't find anywhere) and the retaining screws for the hand guard (Not a big deal and easily replaceable). Any advice is much appreciated.

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[Calif-Steve]

Lots of these were sporterized in the 1960's. Try to hunt down some old gunsmith's shop and go though his parts pile. The parts are not common. Gun Parts Co. and Springfield Sporters also need a look. Good luck.

[pdmayton]

It's not absolutely necessary to replace the stacking hook right away, it will still be perfectly functional without it but it is something that I'm actively looking for. I would like to start doing what I can to make it shootable and more pretty in the meantime though. Thanks for the advice.