This is a very fine example of a matching, original WWII German MP40 Submachine gun as used by all German forces. These MP40 SMGs were highly prized as war trophies even during WWII and are even more desirable today and are probably the most sought-after WWII SMGs. Typically they are called a "Schmeisser" or Machine Pistol, which stems from the model designation of Machine Pistole, while in reality the MP40 is a true submachine gun, firing from an open bolt using the 9mm Parabellum round, same as the Luger pistol. They were a marvel of wartime manufacturing using stampings combined with limited machined parts to increase manufacturing speed and reduce time and cost. They were produced by three primary factories; Erma-Werkes, Haenel and Steyr, with this example produced by the Steyr factory in 1941. The top of the rear receiver end cap is stamped with: "MP40/bnz/41". The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number "6179" with the appropriate "WaA623" Waffenamts on the various parts. It has the traditional dark red bakelite grips and dark brown lower receiver cover. The trigger group, folding buttstock, barrel nut, resting bar, bolt (field renumbered) and rear sight are all correctly serial numbered and matching to the receiver. The firing pin is mismatched which is very common as it was subjected to high use during firing. This MP40 is complete with one original WWII MP40 magazine, three spare MP40 marked magazine and a magazine loader.