A variant on the Maxim machine gun, the 1908/15 was a go-to standard for the German Army during World War One, deployed to great effect across countless miles of trench work, turning avenues of approach into deadly obstacles. While still a beefy, water-cooled monster, the 08/15 had improved tactical mobility with the use of a simplified solid bipod and buttstock assembly instead of the large "sled" field mounts of the day, trading off the stability and versatility of the mount for the ability to adjust angle and reposition much faster. Blade front and tangent rear sights, with a combination flash hider and recoil booster on the front of the water jacket, a checkered pistol grip, and a fixed hardwood buttstock. The arsenal marks and "1918" date are present on the top cover, with the charging handle on the right side, the tension adjustment mechanism on the left, and a safety switch next to the pistol grip. A brown leather sling, original 100-round belt drum and a steel bipod are included. Per a statement by the consignor, this item was acquired from the owners of an agricultural feedstore in the area of Madison, Nebraska, and per the family history of the owners was captured in the field by a trooper with the 42nd Infantry Division, aka the Rainbow Division, on the Western Front of World War One. The unnamed GI reportedly captured and brought back this 08/15 along with a full sized MG08, which sat in a Nebraska farmhouse and were registered during the 1968 Amnesty, later being hung on the ceiling of the AG store as conversation pieces and advertising gimmicks, staying in the family for 3 generations before being sold to the consignor.

Very fine overall, with 70% plus original blue finish, showing areas of brown patina, mild spotting and handling marks. The water jacket and bipod retain about half of an applied brushed green camouflage paint finish, with the remainder having worn through to show the blued steel. Some mixed numbered components are present. The wood is fine, with mild scattered dents overall and some play in the buttstock. Mechanically functions but needs adjustment. 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.