This is a good example of a WWII MP-40 submachine gun manufactured by the Steyr factory. The 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 throughout WWII 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. They are a blow-back weapon that fires from an open bolt at a cyclic rate of approximately 500 rpm. They were produced by three primary companies (Steyr, Erma, and C. G. Haenel) from 1940 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 example was produced in 1942 by the Steyr factory and is marked on the rear receiver cap with: "MP 40/bnz 41". It has the standard stamped sheet metal receiver and ribbed magazine housing with the machined bolt having a replacement charging handle. It is a completely matching SMG including the firing pin assembly. The major components are stamped with the main serial number "8711" with the various other smaller parts stamped with a derivative of that like "711". It is fitted with the traditional dark red bakelite grips and lower receiver cover. This MP40 is complete with a "98e/41" marked MP38u40 magazine. Typically, these have been 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.

Very good with 25% of the blue finish remaining overall with the balance of the metal finish having browned out completely with the remaining a gray patina finish. The plastic components are all in very good condition overall showing handling marks and light scratches on the sides but no damage all from wartime use. 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.