GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
CSRG CHAUCHAT MODEL 1918 MACHINE GUN IN .30-06 (C&R).CSRGMDL 1918A29030-06MODERN; NFA; C&RCal. 30-06. 22" bbl with flash hider. Chauchat model 1918 as manufactured by Chauchat, Sutter, Ribeyrolles and Gladiator (CSRG) for United States WWI forces. The U.S. WWI expeditionary force was short on machine guns upon their arrival in France and as an expedient France supplied them with the Chauchat in 8mm Lebel which was later redesigned to use the U.S. .30-06 cartridge. The model 1918 is the designation for this .30-06 version. Correctly marked "CSRG. A" (the "A" denoting it is a 30-06 model). Includes one cleverly adapted Johnson magazine and a canvas mag carrying pouch and exceedingly rare Chauchat rifleman's belt marked "Long 3-18". External SNs match. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval for transfer. This item is fully transferable on an ATF form 3 or 4 as Curio & Relic eligible. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is good overall thinning to an even gray patina with some more finish in recessed areas and significantly more finish remaining on left side of lower receiver. Receiver tube exhibits added marking "NFA Norcross GA / A 290". Wood shows numerous handling marks and some dings and scratches, but is very strong and serviceable with a pleasing dark color. Bore is fine with some darkness to the grooves. Bbl detent catch has been twisted, but holds and could be straightened by a competent gunsmith. Chamber face shows some evidence of machine work indicating that this gun may have been a dewat at one time, but also has had a slight recess filed for the extractor to rotate, which for those who know these machine guns is what is needed to help them run properly. On the orig unmodified .30-06 Chauchats the extractor rested on the chamber face. Bolt and bolt face in excellent condition, firing pin hole has slight ding, but nothing that would interfere with function. Left lip of muzzle flash hider has significant ding, but this does not detract from the overall appearance. Previous owner stated that this is an outstanding shooter. Smoothness of action, overall appearance, combined with complete and attractive dark wood in desirable caliber, and low serial number makes this a very fine addition for the advanced WWI collector. 52517-3 JWK82 (4,500-7,500)