September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
This is a semi-automatic rifle constructed using original Browning M1917 water-cooled machine gun parts on a newly made semi-automatic sideplate manufactured by Rock Island Arsenal, and is marked as such. Right sideplate also bears the name “CHARLES BROWN, AUBURNDALE FL”. This gun has a steel trunnion and nose cap, and this means it will hold up well utilizing steel link belts as well as cloth belts. Water fill and drain caps are attractive brass, as are the retention chains. Attractive bakelite handles on grip frame. Unmarked on top .30-06 bolt. Desirable accessories include a 1917A1 Tripod, wood ammunition box with cloth belt and 150 rounds of U.S.G.I .30-06 ammunition, three additional cloth belts, steam condensing (water) can, two steam condensing hoses, steam hose canvas carrier, “beer can” style flash hider, two rear sight assemblies on top covers (missing pivot pins), two top cover retention latches, large machine gun water canteen, empty leather sight case, and spare .30-06 Browning 1917A1 barrel. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is near mint, unfired since remanufacture, original gray parkerized finish. Grips near excellent. All parts are near excellent, as is tripod, which has no data plate present. Bores of both barrels are near excellent, shiny and bright. Mechanics are crisp and positive. These semi-auto versions of the Browning Water Cooled 1917 are very popular as they transfer just like a modern rifle without the hassle of a registered NFA item. Also, they can be privately owned in states and localities where private ownership of machine guns is prohibited. These guns look great, and with proper trigger manipulation, a practiced gunner can mimic the rate of fire of a machine gun. Great piece in great condition. JWK 2024-09-039.
Accessories
Tripod, Tripod head, Water Can, Hose, Belts, 2 top covers with latches
Caliber/Bore
.30-06 Springfield
Manufacturer
Rock Island Arsenal