Manufactured about 2010 by Sport-System Dittrich of Germany and imported by PTR-91 Incorporated of Connecticut, this is a very scarce and desirable semi-automatic commercial copy of the WWII German MP43/44 Sturmgewehr assault rifle. Appropriate adjustments have been made for closed bolt, semi-auto only operation; otherwise, the design hews as close as reasonably possible to the vintage Sturmgewehr. Quantities are limited, with only about 200 believed to have been imported into the USA due to the limitations on production and importation. Blade front and tangent rear sights, with the serial number and "PTR44" on the left side of the stamped sheet metal frame, and manufacturer/importer markings on the right side, and a "fxo" stamp on the underside in emulation of the original wartime production. Fitted with a pair of ribbed pistol grips, a hardwood buttstock with ribbed naked butt and steel reinforced toe and heel, and a "gxy/1944" marked sling. Note: This item is restricted under various state-level assault weapons bans and cannot be sold or transferred to residents of CA, CT, DE, HI, IL, MD, NJ, NY, and WA. Please check your local laws and regulations prior to bidding. Provenance: The Thomas Whiteman Collection

Fine, with 80% plus original blue finish, showing areas of brown patina, minor spotting, and some handling/tool marks. An area on the right side of the receiver above the trigger housing shows a square section of brown patina with signs of tack welding on the upper and lower edges; the receiver may have had a scope rail installed and later removed. Wood is excellent. The safety is out of order, otherwise mechanically very good.