This is a very fine example of an original MP-40 Submachine gun manufactured by the Steyr factory and used throughout WWII by the German forces. These MP-40 SMGs were highly prized as war trophies during WWII and are even more desirable today and are probably the most sought-after WWII SMGs ever offered for sale. They were widely used by German forces so much so that if you look at any picture or news reel footage from WWII you will probably see someone using an MP-40. They were lightweight, accurate, and easy to point and shoot making them an ideal weapon to carry throughout the war. Typically, they were called a "Schmeisser" due to the allies misconceptions of the origins of the design; however, they are actually called a "Machine Pistol" hence the "MP" model designation based on the fact that they fired a 9mm Parabellum cartridge. They are a blowback weapon that fires from an open bolt at a cyclic rate of approximately 500 rpm. They were produced by primary companies (Steyr, Erma, and C. G. Haenel) from 1938 through late 1945. They used numerous subcontracted parts to help speed up production, allowing over 1 million MP-40s to be produced before the end of the war. This is a third model produced in 1942 by the Steyr factory that is marked on the rear receiver cap with: "MP 40/bnz 42". It has the standard stamped sheet metal receiver and ribbed magazine housing with the machined bolt and barrel assembly. It is a composite weapon as it has two different serial numbers on the receiver tube and lower trigger housing assembly. The receiver tube, barrel, barrel nut and front sight are all stamped with serial number "9624g" while the end cap/ trigger housing assembly and folding steel stock are serial numbered "9938g" or "938". It is fitted with the traditional dark red bakelite grips and lower receiver cover. The replacement telescoping firing pin assembly is numbered "950", and the bolt itself is numbered "2208a". This MP40 is complete with an "fxo" marked MP-40 magazine and a leather sling.