December 16, 17, & 18, 2025 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/16/2025
Note the factory markings, serial number, and caliber designation on this machine gun. This MG42/59 was imported and registered by Cadillac Gage and used to boresight vehicle turrets. This cataloger knows both the owners since importation. On the left side of the receiver forward of the factory markings the following has been added in electro-pencil: “RHEINMETAL GmbH/FRG CADILLAC GAGE WARREN, MICH”. This gun is factory correct in 7.62x51mm (.308) using M13 disintegrating links. This would have been the first serialized MG 42/59 produced by Rheinmettal in 1964. Although it is fitted with a standard buffer, previous owner states no buttstock has ever been fitted. Appearance of buffer bears this out. Includes both a blank firing adapter which screws onto the end of the muzzle in lieu of the normal flash-hider, and a training ammunition adapter for the muzzle (literal translation “shock absorber for training exercise"), in its original box, with bolt head. This weapon’s muzzle has the booster assembly identical to the WWII muzzle and booster, but the blank firing adapter is of the later configuration. Feed tray has provision to stop the expanded belt from dropping on the right side. No Nazi-marked parts, which is appropriate. Top cover and barrel have assembly numbers appropriate to the era. Barrel is marked “7.62”. Electronic NFA registry indicates “RHEINMETTAL (GERMANY)” in the manufacturer’s block. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is near excellent deep dark gray finish with some loss of finish at the mounting attachment points. It is obvious this gun has been fired. There is some carbon buildup in the booster cone and some evidence of past buildup of carbon and removal in the muzzle. Barrel has some horizontal tool (vise) marks on the exterior about 9"-10" forward of the chamber, and the barrel collar has been replaced. The bore is near excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt face is also near excellent. Handgrip is of the hard rubber composite type and is near excellent and very attractive. This is the first of the MG42/59s and as such, should be of premium interest to collectors. 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 2025-12-196.
Accessories
blank firing adapter and boxed training ammunition adapters
Manufacturer
Rheinmetal Cadillac Gage