This is a very scarce example of an early World War II G41(M) rifle as manufactured in 1942. This was an early German armaments attempt to develop a reliable semi-automatic rifle utilizing the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge. Based upon requests of certain criteria desired by the German Army, the Walther and Mauser firms designed semi-automatic rifles; Mauser followed the rules, Walther did not. This Mauser design, the G41(M), uses a complicated system with a conventional bolt action and a semi-automatic action along with a "Bang" gas trap system. In semi-automatic operation, the bolt serves as a non-reciprocating charging handle, chambering the first round and cocking the striker, but in the event of a gas system failure the operator could continue to fire the weapon like a conventional bolt action rifle (in order to appease a military request for this option as a backup). This was a complicated and time consuming rifle to produce, and it ultimately lost out to the Walther G41(W), which does not include a back up bolt action and has only semi-automatic capability. Reportedly, 6,673 Mauser G41(M) rifles were manufactured in total before production was halted, and of these, 1,673 were returned as unusable. The top of the receiver is stamped "G41(M)/1942". Mauser "Eagle/135" Waffenamt proofs on various components. Standard blade front sight with a sheet metal sight cover, and tangent rear sight graduated from 1-12. Fitted with a standard pistol grip walnut stock, short mid-length walnut handguard and cupped steel buttplate. The cone and front sight are non-matching numbered replacements, with otherwise matching visible serial numbers on the remaining components including the bolt assembly and stock. Includes a period brown leather sling.

Fine, retains 60% original blue finish with areas of finish wear showing smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, some scattered light surface freckling, and defined markings and edges in the metal overall. There are two parallel dents visible on the right side of the gas cylinder. Stock is also fine with defined edges, numerous scattered dents and scratches, and crisp stamps. Mechanically excellent.