November 18, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/18/2020
Very attractive Beretta 38/42 with lightly struck WaA 162 (Beretta under German supervision) Eagle proof just forward of rear sling attachment point. Visible numbers are matching including barrel, receiver and stock. One original 40 round magazine, and an Eastern European web and leather sling are included. Also included is a copy of the original registration paperwork, and a letter indicating this weapon was acquired by an American Soldier stationed in Belgium during World War II. Although registered as SN 8944, there is a prefix "CK" above this serial number. This can be requested correction through the BATF upon paper transfer application. Magazine has a lightly hand-etched non-matching serial number on left side. Gun is marked on top of receiver “M.P. “BERETTA” Mod. 38/42-Cal.9". This specimen has a fluted barrel with compensator cuts forward of the front sight to counteract muzzle climb. Based upon other specimens this cataloger has observed this gun was completed at the factory not long before the transition to the “smooth” barrel models. A number of these guns were taken into service by German troops late in the war, and although MP-40 production had ceased in favor of MP-44/STG-44 production, had there been further need of 9mm machine pistols, the Beretta 38/42 was what the German forces would have procured. Selective fire gun with two triggers, one for full-auto, and the other for semi-auto fire. These Beretta guns are accurate, controllable, durable, and reliable, and the model 38/42 was regarded with particular favor by the troops that employed them. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine combination of original and refinished parts. Receiver tube, barrel, magazine housing safety, and trigger guard are original finish with little scattered areas of light oxidization and some gray patina at contact points of safety and charging handle cover. Buffer button and butt plate have a dull gray refinish. Matching numbered stock is outstanding, unsanded, with some very slight handling marks and a couple tiny chips where the wood meets and is proud of the buttplate. Mechanics are crisp. Bore is near excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt is extremely fine. A very attractive wonderful World War II sub-machine gun, righteously considered one of the best in World War II service and exceptionally fun to shoot at the range. 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 2020-11-015
Accessories
1 Magazine, sling
Paperwork
Copies of original registration paperwork