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LOT 508
Exceptionally Scarce Late World War II Mauser StG-44 (byf code) Rifle, Class III/NFA DEWAT Machine Gun - Serial no. 260, 7.92 x 33mm Kurz cal., 16 inch round bbl., blue/phosphate finish, laminate stock. A relatively late development in the European Theater, the Sturmgewehr (literally “assault rifle”) line of firearms used both an unprecedented amount of stamped sheet metal for an infantry rifle as well as an intermediate power cartridge to increase controllability in automatic fire and reduce overall ammo weight without completely sacrificing striking power at range. The Sturmgewehr would serve as the direct forefather to the CETME/ G3 line of firearms, as well as a spiritual forefather to many Cold War infantry weapons. This example bears Mauser’s “byf” manufacturer code on the underside, and is fitted with a hooded blade front and tangent notch rear sight and has the “StG44” model marking on the left side beneath the charging handle channel and “45” stamped on the left side of the magazine well ahead of the serial number. The trigger unit is secured to the receiver with a hinge pin at the front and a push pin at the rear, the latter of which also secures the mismatched number (5475) replacement buttstock, which is fitted with a brown leather sling and has a few small cleaning tools in a trapdoor compartment. The stock is of laminated hardwood construction with steel reinforced corners. It also has serrated wood grip panels and a ventilated metal forearm. One phosphate magazine is included, marked “MP44” and “qnw” on the body. The work to turn this item into a Deactivated War Trophy (DEWAT) mainly consists of plugging and welding of the breech/receiver; no tack welds are externally visible, and the bolt is both mobile and shows no welding to the face. Also included is a 1944 dated StG44 manual in the original German and 1968 vintage transfer paperwork. CONDITION: Very fine as deactivated, with 85% of the combination phosphate/blue finish, showing a mixed gray and brown patina on the receiver and trigger housing, stronger blue on the stock socket, barrel, and gas system, and scattered spotting and wear overall. Mixed numbers are present. The grip panels show scuffing and dents, with some dark spots and minor chips on the buttstock. Mechanically needs adjustment, as the dust cover interferes with the rear sight and the trigger group currently operates as semi-automatic only. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), Class 3 DEWAT that is fully transferable, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478. Estimate: 16,000 - 25,000