April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
Absolutely fabulous original World War I original configuration Marlin Rockwell manufactured BAR model 1918 including correct World War I era style flash hider as well as outstanding checkered wooden forend. Barrel marked “M” (for Marlin) with “7-18” date and ordnance bomb proof marks. One original vintage 20 round magazine with “M” proof on floorplate also included with this lot. Gun retains its semi-auto operational feature as originally fielded for World War I. When selector is in the forward position the rifle fires semi-automatic only and in the middle position fully-automatic. The Browning automatic rifle was designed to provide “walking fire” while on the advance. This concept meant to maximize the attack firepower and allow for both automatic suppressive fire on an objective as well as aimed semi-automatic fire from the shoulder. The BAR is a favorite at any shooting event, and this beautiful specimen is certain to draw significant interest. High quality manufacture, beautiful finish and furnishings, and tremendous fun to shoot. This is the BAR that many collectors have been waiting for. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine to near excellent professional faithful refinish over a couple handling marks visible only upon close examination with some subsequent very little brown patina. Magazine also has lustrous blue finish with some loss of finish to a grey patina in places. Forend is in fabulous condition with perhaps the slightest of handling marks. Buttstock exhibits a slight 2-3/4" crack on left running parallel to the bore line 1/4" from top of the receiver towards the butt. This does not affect serviceability and a good wood repairman could deal with this. Otherwise the buttstock exhibits light but typical handling marks and dings. Bore is near excellent shiny and bright. Mechanics are crisp. This is the among the most attractive BAR's this cataloger has ever seen come to auction. Combination of model, configuration, vintage, appearance, and quality of bore and internals in a gun that is in a condition to be fired as much as one would like without diminishing the value. Absolutely fabulous gun for the U.S. military historical machine gun enthusiast, or World War I era collector, or for that matter, a forward thinking investor/shooter. This gun brings the key elements of value together into a great opportunity! A great machine gun! 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.
Manufacturer
Marlin Rockwell
Model
Browning Automatic Rifle