This is a very fine example of a WWII German MP40 Submachine gun as used by all German forces. These MP40 SMGs were highly prized as war trophies 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 Werke, Haenel and Steyr, with this example produced by the Steyr factory in 1942. The top of the rear receiver end cap is stamped with: "MP40/bnz/42". The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number "80j", and the appropriate "WaA623" Waffenamts are on the various parts. It has an unusually dark brown almost maroon bakelite lower receiver cover and grip panels. The trigger group, folding buttstock, barrel nut, resting bar, bolt, firing pin and rear sight are all correctly serial numbered and matching to the receiver. This MP40 is complete with one original WWII MP40 magazine and an original WWII leather MP40 sling ink stamped "M.P.38 u.40." This example has been reactivated as there is a small welded/repaired and reblued area directly in front of the magazine well, under the front end of the receiver/breech area of the barrel. It is very nice done and is almost unnoticeable.

Very fine as reactivated with 90% of the current blue finish overall with edge and high spot wear with general light thinning on the receiver and barrel with a blue/brown mix patina on the grips traps and folding buttplate. The bakelite components are all in very fine condition. It has all matching numbered parts except the aluminum resting bar under the barrel which is unnumbered. A really nice looking WWII German MP40 SMG. NOTE: This item is restricted as a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is 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.