Developed and introduced in 1917 (and designated the 1918 to prevent confusion with the Model 1917 machine gun), the Browning Automatic Rifle became a signature American weapon for generations, seeing limited action in World War I, on both sides of the law during the "Public Enemy" era of crime, and heavy use in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Offered here is an early production example manufactured by Winchester in early 1918, with their production serial numbers reportedly commencing at 64001 and this example bearing serial number 66287. Blade front and folding ladder rear sights, with "W/(flaming bomb)/1-19" marked on the top front of the replacement barrel with eagle and flaming bomb Ordnance proofs at the breech. A set of British proofs are present on the right side of the receiver and barrel, the latter also bearing caliber and pressure stamps. The top of the receiver bears the 5-line Winchester nomenclature starting with the early "BROWNING MACHINE RIFLE" and ending in "PATENT APPLIED FOR", with "F A S" pattern (semi/full/safe) selector mechanism with the spring loaded catch to keep the operator from accidentally putting the rifle on "safe" when flipping to full automatic, and the early pattern trigger housing which lacks the magazine guide "wings" introduced after World War I. Fitted with a checkered hardwood forearm and a smooth pistol grip stock with a steel buttplate. Included with the lot is a brown leather sling, tan canvas gunner's belt, three canvas magazine pouches, cleaning tools, and five extra magazines.

Very fine, with 85% of the arsenal refurbished blue finish, showing mild spotting, areas of brown and gray patina, and mild handing marks overall. The wood is good, with a crack in the left rear side of the forearm and mild scuffs and dings overall. 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.