This is a fine example of a WWI era German M.P.18 I SMG manufactured by the Theodor Bergmann factory. The model was designed by Hugo Schmeisser in 1917 and first appeared in early 1918 and was only used on a limited basis during WWI. After WWI however they were considered significant war items and were specifically banned/restricted under the Treaty of Versailles. It is a straight blow back type weapon firing the standard 9 mm Luger cartridge. It has a heavy tubular receiver and barrel jacket with a heavy round bolt that used a fixed firing pin. The various parts and assemblies were all subcontracted out to smaller companies, with the Bergmann factory doing the final assembly and testing. The top of the receiver it stamped: "M.P.18,I./Crown/I/33293/Crown/C". The left side is marked: "THEODORE BERGMANN ABT. WAFFENBAU SUHL." The receiver and barrel jacket are fitted with a fixed blade front sight and a 2 position (200 and 300 meters) rear sight. It has a one-piece walnut stock with finger grooves on the sides with a flat stamped steel buttplate. It has matching visible numbers on the various parts except the front of the handguard. This SMG comes with its original leather sling and one original Bing Brothers Luger drum magazine with its adapter for use on this weapon.

Very fine with 85% plus of the blue finish overall showing minor/light edge and high spot wear with thinning on the magazine well/receiver adapter where it was handled or carried. The stock is in fine condition with a dark walnut color overall showing numerous light handling marks on the sides and underside where it was handled and carried. A very nice looking original Theodor Bergmann MP18/I 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.