November 17 & 18, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2021
German MP-43 manufactured by "fxo" (C.G. Haenel) in 1944 with clear "WaA 37" proofs on receiver forward of the magazine housing. Numerous Nazi proofs on remaining parts including “cos” (Mertzwerke), which was a sub-contractor who supplied parts for many German weapons. “cos” visible on metal socket of buttstock. Operating piston and bolt matches receiver number. Early style bolt without cut-out manufactured by Mauser as a sub-contractor with C.G. Haenel final proof. Visible numbers match on this rifle with a double struck digit on lower trigger house under socket hardware of buttstock. Numbers match between receiver and buttstock assembly which is numbered 7238. Wood butt is of later low profile, 5 - 3/8” in height. Includes an original “MP-44” “gqm” 30 round magazine. The MP43 was the first true modern “assault rifle” chambered for a shorter than standard rifle cartridge (33mm vs 57mm) which, although less powerful than the standard 8 mm German rifle round, was still very effective at up to medium ranges where most combat took place. This allowed the individual soldier to carry plenty of ammunition in 30 round magazines so that the rifle could be effective in close quarters combat for extended period, and was particularly effective when fighting against the robust manpower contained in Russian military formations on the Eastern Front. A vast improvement in sustainable firepower over the standard 98K German rifle. 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 matte refinish over some light pitting. Wood is unsanded, but also refinished. Original Kunststoff brown grips are extremely fine. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright. Bolt face is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp, smooth and positive. This is 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. JWK 2021-11-015