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LOT 1388
World War II German “swd” Code Magat MG42 General Purpose Machine
Gun, Class III/NFA C&R Fully Transferable Machine Gun with Accessories -
Serial no. 3992o, 7.92 mm cal., 21 inch round bbl., matte black finish, synthetic
stock. One of the signature weapons of World War II, the German MG42 machine
gun was one of the best infantry weapons of the war, blending portability and
intense firepower, while also being more streamlined in production than earlier
weapons. Dubbed “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” and “the Linoleum Ripper”, the MG42’s high
cyclic rate of up to 1,200 rounds per minute gave it a distinct and intimidating
sound, very alien to American and Commonwealth troopers trained with and
around slower-firing weapons; at that speed, individual gunshots are replaced
with a steady, disturbing roar. Along with firepower, the MG42 provided
versatility, able to serve as a fixed position weapon like the U.S. M1919 or as an
individually wielded weapon during tactical maneuver like the American BAR
or British Bren Gun. The 42’s life went on after the war, continuing in service
with the West German armed forces rechambered for NATO-standard calibers,
and being used alongside the FG42 as inspiration for the development of the
American M60. Folding blade front and tangent rear sights are installed on the
full length barrel shroud, along with a screw-on flash hider, folding bipod, and
a quick-release barrel mechanism. A machined trunnion connects the stamped
shroud to the stamped receiver, which bears the manufacturer markings on
the left side, with a set of ribbed pistol grips, two-position push-button safety
switch, and a synthetic buttstock. Included with the lot is a green painted anti-
aircraft tripod and two ammunition cans.
CONDITION: Very fine, with 85% of the refinished blue, showing areas of shallow
pitting, a small amount of rust visible on the bipod and rear field mount lugs,
firing residue on and around the muzzle device, and mild handling marks. The
furniture is fine, with minor scuffing on the grips and buttstock. Mechanically
excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable
Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a “Curios or Relic” as defined in 27 CFR,
478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44
and 27 CFR part 479.
Estimate: 40,000 - 60,000