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LOT 1366
Rare Late World War II Gustloff VG1.5
Volksturmgewehr Semi-Automatic Rifle - Serial
no. TH1452, 7.92 mm cal., 14 1/2 inch round bbl.,
gray phosphate finish, wood stock. Introduced late
in the war, the Volksturmgewehr 1.5 was part of
a wave of “Volks” weapons intended as last ditch
weapons that could be made at high speed
with limited resources. Designed to require
a minimum of detailed machining, the 1.5
uses stamped and welded steel for many
parts, with flat board forearm panels
and stock, and configured to accept the
same magazines as the MP44/Sturmgewehr.
Operation is by retarded blowback principles, with
a set of vents near the muzzle directing gas into the combination barrel sleeve and
bolt carrier, allowing the use of rifle-strength ammunition without elaborate locking
mechanisms at the breech. Blade front and fixed notch rear sights mounted on the barrel
sleeve, with a sheet metal cover at the rear, two-piece forearm, one-piece stock with
“Th1452” stamped on the side, and a canvas sling. Properly, no Waffenamt proofs are
present; mainly intended for issue to civilian auxiliaries and hastily organized Volksturm
units, the VG1.5 was never subjected to formal military inspection.
CONDITION: Fine, with 40% of the original gray phosphate finish, showing areas of brown
patina, spotting, and light scratches and dings. Stock is very good, with cracking at the
wrist, scuffs and dings. Safety needs adjustment; otherwise, mechanically functions.
Estimate: 18,000 - 27,500