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Rare Late World War II Gustloff VG1.5 Volksturmgewehr Semi- Automatic Rifle with Sling and Extra Magazines - Serial no. Th8166, 8 mm cal., 15 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 “Th8166” stamped on the side, and a canvas sling. Properly, no Waffenamt proofs
are present; chiefly intended for issue to civilian auxiliaries and hastily organized Volksturm units, the VG1.5 was never subjected to formal military inspection. Two extra magazines are included.
CONDITION: Good, with 85% plus original gray phosphate finish, showing correct variations in color, contact/cycling wear, and mild handling marks. The excellent wood shows mild dings and scuffs and crisp marking. Mechanically excellent.
Estimate: 25,000 - 45,000