September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/5/2023
Marked on right side of the receiver “MLE 1924 M 29” over the serial number. Matching serial number on top of barrel. One original magazine is included as well as an original monopod and original leather sling, still exhibiting albeit illegible ink cartouches. Bipod retains its original cast brass feet and deploys properly. Buttstock compartment under original serviceable flip-up buttplate. Leather cover still present and serviceable on cocking handle. The Chatellerault incorporates an effective ejection port and magazine well cover arrangement designed to keep dust and grime out of the action. It is worth noting that the bolt holds open on the final shot when the magazine is in place on this arm. NFA Electronic registry indicates “FRANCE” as the manufacturer. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is fine retaining about 70% of original blue finish thinning and turning to a brown or gray patina in places with some light to moderate pitting on the left side of the receiver, particularly at the bottom edge near the trigger assembly. Wooden furnishings exhibit light to moderate handling marks, more so on the buttstock than on the forearm and handgrip. Nice black enamel finish on the monopod. Bore has strong shiny lands getting a little dark in the grooves. Bolt face is extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. The Chatellerault was a successful adaptation of the Browning Automatic Rifle by the French with the idea it could provide “walking fire” upon offensive maneuver. The 2-trigger design, one for semi-automatic and one for fully automatic fire, make this a select-fire machine gun. Those who have fired this machine gun will attest to its effectiveness. A rare gun and a great opportunity for the French gun collector! 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 2023-9-42
Caliber/Bore
7.5x54mm French
Manufacturer
Chatellerault