April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
Very attractive "fxo" (C.G. Haenel) MP44 manufactured in 1944 with clear "WaA 37" proofs on receiver forward of the magazine housing. Sheet metal stamped receiver manufactured by “cos” (Mertzwerke), which was a sub-contracter who supplied parts for many German weapons. “cos” also visible in sling recess of buttstock. Operating piston matches receiver number. Refinished bolt has non-matching electro-pencil number on underside. Numbers do not match between receiver and buttstock assembly which is numbered 7788 on bottom of wood, and “788” on buttstock socket. Bottom of receiver has added “MP 44 8 MM / H R GUNS” added markings professionally stamped in. Includes one original “fxo” 30 round magazine. The MP44 was the first true modern “assault rifle” chambered for a shorter than standard rifle cartridge (33 mm vs 57 mm) which although less powerful than the standard 8mm German rifle round was still very effective at medium ranges where most combat took place. This allowed the individual soldier to carry plenty of ammunition in 30 round magazine so that the rifle could be effective in close quarters combat as well. Capable of both semi-automatic and fully-automatic fire with the pressing of a switch at the side of the the receiver this first modern "assault rifle" could fill the role of a deliberate "aimed-fire" weapon, as well as that of a "suppressing fire" weapon. This rifle was constructed of metal stampings to the maximum extent possible to save production time and cost. CONDITION: Overall Appearance and finish is extremely fine as refinished on both receiver and on wood. Gas tube, operating piston, and magazine do not appear to have been refinished. Original wood grips are extremely fine. Bore is very clean, shiny and bright. Bolt face is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. A very attractive looking specimen of an extremely popular and collectible machine gun. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4 AS CURIO AND RELIC ELIGIBLE.