May 18, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/18/2022
Among the first machine guns that fired a full-sized rifle round and was designed to be utilized by a single operator, the Chauchat Model 1915 light machine gun saw extensive usage among French and Allied troops during the First World War, and continued to usage with foreign militaries after the conclusion of World War I. This example is stamped "C.S.R.G." (Chauchat, Sutter, Ribeyrolles, and Gladiator) on the left side of the receiver, followed by the serial number "128164". Selector switch is stamped ""S", "M", and "C". "N" conversion stamp is not present, possibly indicating that this example was brought into the United States by a Doughboy. Features include a blue finish, 18" barrel, fixed blade front sight, adjustable V-notch rear sight with graduations from 200 - 2000 meters, bipod, as well as a solid wood buttstock, pistol grip, and foregrip. Matching numbers are present on the receiver, upper assembly, recoil spring guide rod/receiver end cap, barrel, as well as the firing pin. Right bipod leg has been replaced at one time, exhibiting a grey painted finish. One original magazine included. Also included is a set of original anti-aircraft sight (front and rear pieces). CONDITION: Metal components exhibit wear and thinning overall, with the balance showing lightly through to pleasant brown and gray patinas. Mirror bore, exhibiting well-defined lands and grooves throughout. Wood furniture exhibits scattered handling marks and minor impressions but is otherwise sturdy and serviceable. A nice example of one of the earliest light machine gun designs that was heavily used in World War I. 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. MLW