Recommended for approval by the US Ordnance committee in Jan 1943, these submachine guns were intended to be a wartime mass-production version that was initially intended to compliment (as a wartime substitute) and eventually replace the heavier and more expensive 1928 and M1A1 versions of the Thompson SMG. Though withdrawn from overall service in 1957, the M3 was still issued to vehicle crews as late as the First Gulf War. This is an original WWII version as manufactured by the Guide Lamp Division, that has the right side mounted cocking handle, with the protection shroud around the magazine release button and small oiler, both mounted on the left side. The left side of the magazine well is marked "Guide Lamp/Crossed Cannons/U.S. Ordnance stamp/U.S. NO./318009/M3". It has the standard fixed blade front and peep rear sight both mounted on top of the receiver and the barrel is fitted with a Korean War-era M9 flash hider. On the M3 model SMGs, the action cover also doubles as the safety and is covered with a black felt lining on the backside. This example is complete with three (3) original GI M3 magazines in an original GI green canvas magazine pouch. As noted this example has been deactivated by welding the front locking latch and barrel retaining ring to the front of the receiver and then the barrel has a steel plug welded into the chamber.

Excellent overall with 98% of a dark/matte blue finish overall showing minimal edge and high spot wear overall. The bolt can still be cocked and released, just not fired. NOTE: This item is currently registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, as a National Firearms Act (NFA) weapon, which has been 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 478. Before bidding on this item, it is the sole responsibility and obligation of the bidder/Class 3 FFL holder to comply and understand with all the State and Federal transfer laws and restrictions that apply in their current place of residence. Additional Information: The description of this weapon has been changed to read "M3" submachine gun.