November 17 & 18, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2021
This Spandau manufactured 1918 dated Maxim 08/15 machine gun is of particular interest not only because the condition is especially nice, but also in that it retains its matching numbered drum hanger and steam port cover. It is also clear from close inspection of the paint that the water jacket, steam port cover, and bipod are all original to the gun. Unfortunately, the lock is non-matching and the booster is a contemporary reproduction. No feed block present. Other visible serial numbers are matching including the barrel, making this a very attractive MG 08/15 indeed. Stock has vintage retrofitted oiler. Electronic NFA registry indicates “GERMANY” as the manufacturer. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine original finish with about 80% original paint on water jacket and bipod, with less on steam port cover. There is some brown patina to the receiver on the left side. Water jacket has a couple light unobtrusive dings. Wood thumbpieces on water fill cap intact and slightly chipped. Fusee cover has a couple dings and some brown patina. Wood is very fine with some small chips and dings. Bore is dark with strong rifling. Lock has been renumbered multiple times. Mechanics are fine. The 08/15 Maxim was the German “light” machine gun of World War I and remained in service throughout the Weimar era of the 1920’s and 1930’s and remained in rear echelon service through the end of World War II. No World War I machine gun collection is complete without an example of a German Maxim, and these guns are great fun to shoot at the range as well. 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 & RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2021-11-043