This is a nice example of a fairly scarce WWII SMG manufactured by the Marlin Firearms company for United Defense Supply Company that has been deactivated. It was produced in 1942, (hence the UD M. 42 model number). It is estimated that total production was approximately 15,000 with some being used by the OSS/SOE in Europe and the far east. They have a blow-back type action and use a unique UDS 9mm magazine that holds 25 rounds. There are two unique features on this weapon, one is that it does have a hold-open catch, that holds the bolt open after the last round is fired. The other is that the right side of the weapon has a sliding cocking handle almost identical to the cocking handle on the FN-FAL rifles. The left side is marked "UNITED DEFENSE SUPPLY CORP./NEW HAVEN/UD M. 42 and the patent dates". It has a fixed front sight with a rear sight that has adjustable windage, elevation and height as it sits on top of a shaft located inside the rear of the receiver. It has a vertical walnut front pistol grip mounted under the barrel in front of the magazine well with a walnut buttstock and steel buttplate. As noted this weapon has been deactivated by welding a plug inside the chamber of the barrel and then to the wall of the receiver.

Fine as deactivated with 50% of the wartime gray parkerized finish overall with wear on the edge and high spots. The stock and fore grip are both very fine with a nice original dark red/brown color overall showing light handling marks and pressure dents on the sides. A very interesting and unique WWII submachine. NOTE: This item is restricted as a National Firearms Act (NFA), Fully Automatic Weapon that is currently registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (BATF&E) that 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 to understand and comply with all the State and Federal transfer laws and restrictions that apply in their current place of residence.