November 18, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/18/2020
This early Bergmann MP34 (predecessor to the 35/I) machine gun was commercially manufactured for German use prior to World War II. Likely used in either police, and/or later in military/SS service. This specimen is devoid of makers markings of any kind on the metal with only the serial numbers as noted below in evidence. Receiver is number 5431 on right side. This early specimen has an all walnut stock numbered "3549/a" just to the rear of the rear sling swivel with “sch” on the pistol grip. The bolt charging handle is numbered "3451/e" and has discernible eagle proof. The bolt body and barrel match in numbered "4698/a". It was not uncommon for parts to become mixed between combat used weapons. Functionality was key. Stocks of this particular model had a tendency to crack at the wrist and hence are often found mismatched in number. The gun incorporates some very interesting features for a pistol caliber machine gun, such as 2 trigger select fire system where the firer can squeeze off solitary rounds one after another by squeezing the forward trigger to the rear and then releasing it after each shot. If the firer desires fully automatic fire they need only to squeeze the forward trigger all the way to the rear which actuates a lever (2nd trigger) at the rear of the trigger guard which provides automatic fire. The other highly interesting feature of this model is a quick release barrel feature. Depressing a detent button 3 - 1/4” to the rear of the front of the forend will actuate a lever allowing the muzzle and barrel assembly to rotate 90 degrees and be easily withdrawn from the shroud for cleaning. Other features include a safety lever at the left side of the receiver below and slightly to the rear of the adjustable rear sight, and a bolt removal catch which allows the bolt to be fully withdrawn for cleaning. The bolt itself is a relatively heavy piece which cocks the weapon in a way reminiscent of a bolt action rifle for the first shot. 1 original 32 round magazine is included. The Germans themselves adapted/repurposed other 9mm magazines to fit this model after 1942, and this cataloger has a source should they be desired. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine original finish with some scattered areas of brown patina exclusive of the barrel which has near excellent original finish on the body with the muzzle thinning to a gray brown patina. Mechanics are crisp. Bore is shiny and bright with soft-edged lands and frosting 3/4" towards the muzzle. Bolt appropriately in the white and extremely fine. Wood has typical light handling marks and presents very well. This is a select-fire machine gun. The MP-34 became the MP 35/I with only slight modifications and both models were used in second line service, with notable documented use by SS units including rail police and concentration camp guards. This cataloger is aware of one specimen identical in markings and features which was taken from a concentration camp and brought home to the United States. 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. JWK 2020-11-34