December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2023
Very attractive Bergmann MP-18,I in its original configuration with one 32 round snail drum including appropriate “spacer” and dust cover. Also included is a reproduction canvas carrier for the snail drum. The MP18,I in this configuration, was the first pistol caliber sub-machine gun to be designed and fielded to be used by ground troops in combat during WW1. Issued to German Sturmstruppen "Assault Troopers", the MP-18/I proved to be an efficient and effective weapon, and served as the basis for multiple later sub-machine gun designs. Marked "M.P.18,I.” over "1920" with crown proof and serial number on top of magazine housing. Serial numbers match on magazine housing, receiver tube, bolt, end cap, detent latch, detent latch boss, trigger housing and buttplate, as well as the underside of buttstock. Rear sight leaf spring is marked "453". Electronic registry indicates manufacturer as, “GERMANY”. Left side of receiver marked, "THEODOR BERGMANN ABT.WAFFENBAU SUHL". CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is near excellent as professionally refinished with very clear markings with the exception of an indiscernible marking above the model designation on the magazine housing. Bore is very fine, with shiny lands with some frosting in the grooves. Mechanics are crisp. Stock has been very lightly sanded with "1920" present on the left side. 2nd model Bing snail drum has good spring tension and in original finish with a brown patina. See this same auction for other snail drums being offered. Finding this model in original configuration still set up for the snail drum is rare, and this specimen presents extremely well. This cataloger can attest that the MP-18,I is a extremely fun gun to take to the range and shoot. Comfortable and controllable. A fine specimen of the machine gun that served Germany's elite troops during the Great War. 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 2023-12-51
ADDENDUM: Please note that there is a 3" longitudinal crack at the forearm, stabilized by epoxy.
Accessories
Snail drum, loader, spacer and dust covers and canvas cover.