May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
Extraordinarily rare M.SS.41 anti-tank rifle as used by the Waffen SS in WWII. These anti-tank rifles were developed specifically to use the German PzB 39 7.92 x 94 mm Patr. .318 cartridge by CZ from a pre-War 15mm design (for the 15x104 mm ZB vz. 60 MG cartridge) devised for the Czech Army. One original round of ammunition is included with this gun. The M.SS.41 rifles were made during German occupation of Czechoslovakia at the Waffen Werke Brunn (Brno) facility specifically for SS formations. The M.SS.41 is one of the first small arm bullpup designs used in any major conflict. The unique action employs a forward moving barrel, operated by turning the trigger/handgrip group, with fixed standing breech having massive multi-tooth interrupted thread closure behind the magazine. Only about 3,000 are known to have been made, with probably only about a dozen surviving examples known. Left receiver is marked with the "Z" within rifle barrel trademark of Ceska Zbrojovka as well as a very prominent and orig "M.SS 41", a Nazi eagle/swastika firing proof, and the "SS" acceptance mark, a National Socialist Eagle over "SSZZA2" (SS Zentralzeugamt 2). The rifle retains its original magazine, sights, and bipod (derived from the ZB vz. 26/BREN pattern). All exterior parts appear to match the SN of the gun. No carrying handle present. Leather cover and pad not present at butt. PROVENANCE: From the personal collection of noted firearms manufacturer and enthusiast William “Bill” (Happiness is a warm machine gun) Fleming. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish a dark refinish over light pitting on exterior surfaces. Markings are very discernible. Magazine finish is consistent with the rest of this arm. Bore and chamber are near excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt face is near excellent. Locking lugs are also extremely clean. Wooden handgrip has a repaired crack with a running down the right side to a “V” towards the back with a small chip out of it. Mechanism provides a crisp and satisfying “click” when dry fired. This rifle has every indication of having been in use out in the weather, but cared for with preservative oil is the critical internal and operating parts. Wish it could talk! These rifles are extremely sought after within the WWII collecting community, and this specimen would be a great candidate for making a new barrel for recreational shooting. Note that there is a 2nd magazine for this rifle being offered as a separate lot in this auction. JWK 2025-05-084.