Century Arms CETME Model C .308 7.62 18” Semi-Auto Rifle G3 Rifle w/ Sling
SOLD FOR: $1,025
WOA#: WY240210RN015
Make: Century Arms
Model: CETME
Serial Number: C10177
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .308 Winchester / 7.62X51 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked “MADE IN USA / CENTURY ARMS INC. / GEORGIA, VT. / CETME / .308 (7.62 mm)”. Both sides of the grip module are marked “S F”. The top of the receiver is marked “C10177”.
Barrel Length: 18”. 20” with flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded CETME post sight. The rear sight is rotating wheel with 4 different sighting options (3 Aperture and 1 v-notch).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock is a collapsible metal wire stock that runs along the grooved sides of the receiver with checkered rubber buttpad. The pistol grip is a smooth synthetic grip with finger grooves and thumb shelf. The handguard is a G3A1 style black polymer handguard with grooves and checkering. The left side of the receiver cap is has a sling bar. The left side of the gas block has a sling ring. The attachment points are mounted with a nylon black sling. The LOP measures 15” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttpad at full extension. Overall the stock is in Excellent Condition. There is some light handling wear with some minor compressions on the heel of the buttpad and some drag lines on the stocks. The checking is sharp and crisp. There are no chips or cracks or any notable defects.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd HK G3 magazine Good condition. The floorplate is bent at the front. There is some minor finish loss all around. The spring is strong and the leading edges are mostly sharp with some light wear.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is defined. There is some minor erosion evenly throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some operation wear at the rear of the ejection port where the casings have nicked away the finish. Other than that there are only a few minor scratches on the receiver and frame and some mounting wear on the claw mounts. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
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: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine and its attached nylon sling.
Our Assessment: The CETME rifle, an abbreviation for “Centro de Estudios Técnicos de Materiales Especiales” (Center for Technical Studies of Special Materials), is a Spanish-designed firearm that has played a significant role in modern military history. Its development began in the late 1940s when Spain sought to modernize its armed forces. The project was led by German engineer Ludwig Vorgrimler, who previously worked on the StG 44, the first assault rifle, during World War II. Vorgrimler brought his expertise in roller-delayed blowback systems to the CETME project, resulting in the distinctive operating mechanism of the CETME rifle.
The first model, the CETME Model A, was produced in the early 1950s, but it was the Model B that became widely known and served as the basis for the German G3 rifle. The CETME and G3 rifles share many similarities due to their common design origins, including the roller-delayed blowback system, which allows for a lighter rifle with reduced recoil, enhancing shooter accuracy and comfort.
Chambered initially in the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, the CETME was designed to be versatile and capable of automatic and semi-automatic fire, making it suitable for various military roles. Over the years, the rifle underwent several modifications, resulting in different models, including the later Model C, which became the standard service rifle of the Spanish Armed Forces.
The influence of the CETME rifle extended beyond Spain, as its design principles were adopted and adapted by several countries, most notably Germany with its G3 rifle. The CETME’s design also influenced the development of other firearms, showcasing the rifle’s importance in the evolution of modern assault rifles.
Today, the CETME is regarded as a pioneering design in military small arms, celebrated for its innovation and impact on subsequent rifle development. While it has been largely replaced in active service, the CETME remains a significant piece of military history and a collector’s item for firearm enthusiasts. This Century Arms CETME will make a great range day plinker. it appears to have been broken in and has many years left in it with a strong bore and mechanics. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
