Developed by the British during WWI, the Hotchkiss Portable Machine Gun was produced in two models with two versions; a Tank and Calvary version. The Tank version was produced without a buttstock and instead has a small brass pistol grip. These were intended to be mounted either as a coaxial gun or on top in a pedestal mount. The Calvary version actually used a short buttstock and was mounted on the "tripod" that is included with this lot. The two models that were produced was the MK I and the MKI*. The first model could only use feed strips with the cartridges loaded in the strips, while the second model, the MKI* could use either the feed strips or a belt of ammunition. The side of the receiver is marked: "HOTCHKISS PORTABLE MACHINE GUN. MKI*/PATENTED CALIBER .303/No E.28971". The top cover is correctly marked "BELT OR STRIP FEED". The rear of the receiver is also stamped with the matching serial number on the bolt cover and the barrel is marked "A/21505", which probably indicates an arsenal modified or updated barrel. It is fitted with offset sights with an inverted "v" front and a tangent rear sight graduated from "00-20" (100-2000 meters), and a second brass tripod lug is installed ahead of the gas port. The buttstock is steel construction with a hinged shoulder rest and hardwood covers. The tripod is marked "MOUNTING TRIPOD/303 INCH. GUN/HOTCHKISS" and "TYERS/1917", and the various components having the British Broad Arrow proof. Also included is an extra barrel and a set of six loading strips. Included paperwork indicates it was overhauled at the Ohio Ordnance Works in 2015.

Very fine, with 70% plus of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown and gray patina, patches of shallow pitting, edge wear and mild handling marks. The grip panels are undersized with some chipping and cracking, with some chips and scuffs on the buttstock covers. The bolt is stuck, needs work. NOTE: This weapon is 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.