Lot 1544: Steyr "bnz" Code MP44 Sturmgewehr Transferable Machine Gun

Developed relatively late in World War II, the MP44 was a very important milestone in military weaponry, being the namesake of an entire class of weapons, the intermediate caliber, select fire, infantry "assault rifle". Influenced by the situation on both fronts, the MP44 made heavy use of stamped components, limiting costly and labor intensive machined or forged components to critical areas and speeding production. The adoption of an intermediate power cartridge allowed each trooper to haul more rounds in their combat loads, and kept the recoil manageable in a relatively lightweight arm. While the full power "battle rifle" would be the western standard for the start of the Cold War, the MP44's spiritual children gained more traction in the 60s and 70s, and still hold a place as the de-facto standard for infantry weapons. The receiver is marked "MP44" and "7644/44" on the left side and the "bnz" code on the underside. The trigger housing is stamped to match, with matching electro-penciled numbers added to the bolt and bolt carrier. The forearm is constructed from stamped and ventilated sheet metal, hardwood buttstock fitted with steel reinforcement at the toe and heel, and a tan canvas sling.

About good, with 30% of the blue finish, showing a brown patina on the remainder and scattered rust and handling marks. Some small parts, like the rear sight, grips and extractor, are absent. The stock has been damaged, with braised repairs on the mounting iron and chipping and cracking in the wood, exposing the recoil spring. Mechanically very good. 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.