This is a very fine example of a WWII German MG42 machine gun as made by the Steyr factory, bnz code. These were a lightweight, easily transportable, medium machine gun that served as the backbone of all German forces. Of all the German machine guns during WWII this model was probably the most feared weapon on the battlefield, due to the extremely high cyclic rate of fire which was approximately 1,200 rounds per minute. Due to that the GIs termed them "Hitler’s Buzz Saw", because of indistinguishable individual rounds being fired. This model was an improvement over the MG-34 in manufacturing time, cost and actual use on the battlefield. All models used new manufacturing techniques such as a machined receiver/trunnion section that was welded/riveted together with a perforated barrel jacket and stamped top cover to form the complete receiver assembly. The bolt and barrel were made from traditional machined parts, with a stamped and welded trigger housing with bakelite pistol grip plates and a walnut buttstock. They were so efficiently mass produced, that the German factories manufactured well over 400,000 before the end of the war. This weapon used two innovative features, such as the new delayed roller-block locking system with a quick change barrel. This model was made by four primary companies: Mauser, MAGET of Berlin, Gustloff Werke, and Steyr. This example, as noted, was manufactured by the Steyr factory. The left side of the receiver is marked "PJ/MG 42/7652c/bnz". It has an original folding front sight and tangent rear marked 2-20 (200-2,000 meters). It is currently configured in 7.62 NATO with a post war barrel, bolt and top cover: however it also comes with a spare buttstock assembly, original WWII German top cover (Waffenamt WaA519) and feed tray, spare bolt and bolt head and several smaller parts. It is complete with an original, WWII, folding bipod, canvas sling and a large custom muzzle break and black soft case.

Very fine condition with 85% of the original combination phosphate/blued finish remaining overall with edge and high spot wear with evidence of firing and use over the years. The bakelite buttstock is in very fine condition with a nice dark black color showing only limited handling marks on the sides. Mechanically excellent. The various spare parts are all in excellent condition. 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.