Egyptian FN49 Matching FN-49 8mm Mauser Semi Automatic Rifle 1949-61 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,240

WOA#: WY231113SM018

Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Egyptian Contract

Model: 1949 (FN 49)

Serial Number: 31355

Year of Manufacture: 1949 to 1961

Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)

Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “crown / Arabic script”, “asterisk / H” and with a Belgian proof that resembles an “arrow”. The right side of the receiver is marked with the serial number and “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRA_HERSTAL BELGIQUE”. The right side of the receiver, left side of the top cover and left side of the bolt are each marked with the original serial number in Arabic. The rear of the top cover is marked “asterisk / H” and with a Belgian proof that resembles an “arrow”. The gas tube cap is marked with Arabic script. The rear sight is marked with Arabic “numbers”. The barrel is marked “S” with a Belgian proof along with the serial number in Arabic. The barrel is marked “CAI ST A. VT / M49 7.92”.

Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked in Arabic.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecaps, barrel band, 2 sling loops, and a brass buttplate with hinged door for storage. The buttplate shows oxidation. The top of the handguard has a repair. The wood shows several scrapes, scratches, and compression marks. The stock has been oiled. The LOP measures 13 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good to Very Good overall condition as refurbished.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original, Oiled Stock

Bore Condition: The rifling is well defined.  The bore is bright.  There is some light fouling in the grooves.  There is no erosion visible.  In my opinion the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 60% of its metal finish. The metal shows scuffs, scrapes and small scratches.  There is some moderate to heavy corrosion on the stock band, buttplate, test plate, rear of the trigger guard, the rear sling swivel and bottom of the magazine. The bolt shows operational wear. The screw heads tool marked with strong slots. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as C&R.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with one magazine.

Our Assessment: This FN 49 was made in Belgium by Fabrique Nationale. It was made as a contract rifle for the Egyptian Military sometime between 1949 and 1961. It has since been refinished but still has matching Arabic numbers on the receiver, top cover and bolt. This FN 49 looks good for a military rifle that is over 60 years old. The rifle has lots of deep Arabic markings on the metal which add to its history. The rifle has a good bore and can put 8mm downrange as fast as you can pull the trigger. Good luck. – L.S.