French MAS MLE 1936-51 7.5x54mm France 24.5″ Bolt-Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $713
WOA#: WY230815VH009
Make: Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS), France
Model: MAS MLE 1936-51
Serial Number: G6070
Year of Manufacture: 1937–1952
Caliber: 7.5x54mm (7.5 French)
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “MAS MLE 1936-51 G6070” and “P66”, “7.5 FRANCE”, “CAI AT ALB VT.”. The rear of the bolt body is marked “D M”. The bolt charging handle is marked “G6070”. The top of the receiver is marked E B F”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 24 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is a sliding aperture marked from “2-12”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The three piece wood stock has a traditional semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, barrel band with sling ring, a sling well with sling bar and a metal butt plate. The buttplate has some dings and scratches. The wood is very clean and mostly free of any notable defects. The wood shows several areas of discoloration on the buttstock. The LOP measures 12.5 from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Factory Refurbished
Bore Condition: The barrel is counterbored about a 1/2 inch back from the muzzle. The bore is bright and there is no visible erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The receiver and bolt are saturated in old oil. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition for a MAS MLE 1936-51 rifle.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. This rifle was made without a safety. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The MAS MLE 1936-51 is a French bolt-action rifle, a variant of the original MAS-36 used extensively by French forces during World War II and beyond. The 1936-51 model specifically includes improvements like a grenade launcher and a detachable bayonet, aligning it with the tactical needs of the post-war period. Chambered in 7.5×54mm French, a caliber similar in performance to the .308 Winchester, the MAS MLE 1936-51 was a standard-issue rifle for French forces well into the 1970s, seeing action in various conflicts such as the First Indochina War and the Algerian War.
Mechanically, the rifle is noteworthy for its robustness and simplicity. Built with durability in mind, it features a solid one-piece stock and a straightforward bolt action, which lends itself to easy maintenance and high reliability under adverse conditions. The integrated grenade launcher is a distinct aspect of the 1936-51 model, operated by inserting a grenade on the rifle’s muzzle and launching it using special blank cartridges.
In summary, the French MAS MLE 1936-51 is a historical piece that offers a glimpse into the evolution of military firearms in the 20th century. While not as well-known as some other military rifles of its era, it bears a unique combination of features tailored for both conventional and guerrilla warfare. Its rugged design, integral grenade-launching capability, and storied history make it a unique and collectible piece, whether you’re a historical firearms enthusiast or someone intrigued by the progression of military hardware. – L.S.
