French MAS 49/56 18.5” Barrel in 7.5 French Semi Auto Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $861
WOA#: WY240228JA001
Make: French, MAS
Model: 49/56
Serial Number: G39205
Year of Manufacture: 1958-60
Caliber: 7.5 French
Action Type: Semi Automatic, Detachable Box Mag
Markings: This rifle is marked, “G39205 / MAS MLE 1949-56 / CAL. 7,5 / P27” and “7.5 FRENCH FRANCE / C.A.I S.T. ALE. VT.” The bolt is marked, “M FE” The dust cover is marked, “39205” The front sight is marked, “FC”
Barrel Length: 18.5” 20” with the muzzle device.
Sights / Optics: This rifle has an adjustable front cone post with protective wings, the rear sight is an adjustable tangent peephole rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a three piece smooth wood furniture set with finger grooves in the forend, semi-pistol grip, and flat steel buttplate with a rubber cover. There are only minor pressure dents. There are built in sling loops. The LOP is 13.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the stock. The stock rates in at about Excellent overall condition for a C&R rifle.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10 round magazine in Very Good condition
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original to Refurbish
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 6/10
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is wear on some of the non-refurb parts. There is light scratching on the barrel and receiver. The trigger guard is lightly rusted. The screw heads are unmarred, the markings are visible. The internals are lightly worn from use. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition for a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 1 Magazine.
Our Assessment: The French MAS 49/56 is a semi-automatic rifle developed in the mid-20th century by Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS). It was adopted by the French military in 1957 as an updated version of the earlier MAS 49. Chambered in 7.5x54mm French, later variants were modified to accept the more common 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge.
One of the distinctive features of the MAS 49/56 is its detachable magazine, typically holding 10 rounds of ammunition. This allowed for quicker reloading compared to the integrated magazine of its predecessor. The rifle also featured a direct impingement gas system, contributing to its reliable semi-automatic operation.
Throughout its service life, the MAS 49/56 saw action in numerous conflicts, including the Algerian War and various peacekeeping missions. Despite being replaced by more modern firearms in French military service, the MAS 49/56 remains a respected and collectible rifle, valued for its historical significance, robust construction, and unique design features. -R.E.
