Lot 3512: U.S. Johnson Automatics Model 1941 Semi-Automatic Rifle

Originally up for consideration by the Netherlands Purchasing Commission as a service weapon for colonial troops in the Dutch East Indies, a large order for the Johnson Rifle was placed in 1940, but the Japanese invasion of the East Indies prevented delivery. A number of these Dutch Johnsons were procured by the U.S. Marine Corps as a substitute for the M1 Garand and saw action in the Pacific. Blade front and adjustable 1,000 meter "M2" marked rear sights, the model and patent markings on top of the receiver, and a five-pointed star over "CRANSTON/ARMS/CO." in a triangle on the right side below the rear sight. The barrel is marked ".30-'06/41" on the flange and a 5-pointed star on the underside of the chamber. Fitted with a two-piece stock featuring a checkered steel buttplate and a leather sling.

Excellent plus as issued, with 99% of the original parkerized finish, showing mild handling marks. The stock is also excellent, with some scuffs and dings. The sling shows mild cracking and verdigris buildup. Mechanically excellent. One cannot improve upon this example.