French MAS MLE 1949 7.5×54 Semi-Auto Rifle Magazine 1949-56 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1363
WOA#: WY220906MH008
Make: Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS), France
Model: MLE 1949
Serial Number: F 32968
Year of Manufacture: Approximately 1953
Caliber: 7.5x54mm (7.5 French)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The import mark on the barrel reads “CAI ST. A. VT. 7.5 FRANCE”. The left side of the receiver is marked “MAS MLE 1949 CAL 7,5 F 32968”. The bottom of the trigger guard and the left side of the butt are each marked with the serial number “F 32968”. The bottom of the bayonet is marked “90”. The right side of the stock has the makers proof mark with the manufacture date.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall post set between 2 protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture attached to a sliding escalator. A screw on the right rear allows for adjustment for windage. It is marked from “2-12”. The left side of the receiver has a scope rail machined into it. The grenade launcher sight is attached to the left side of the nosecap/sight assembly and is marked from “8-26”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a traditional grip, appropriate finger grooves in the forend, metal nosecap with stacking loop, large hole for the included bayonet, barrel band with sling ring, sling bar, sling well, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate shows scrapes, scratches and surface erosion. The wood shows numerous scrapes, scratches, and compression marks. Several have damaged or removed small portions of the surface wood. The LOP measures 12.75 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rates in about Fair-Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The barrel has been counterbored to about 1/2 of an inch back from the muzzle. The bore is gray and the rifling is deep. There is erosion in the bore. It is more prominent in the grooves and near the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its current metal finished. Surface erosion shows through the new finish. The metal shows scrapes, scratches, discoloration from oxidation and thinning on the leading edges of the metal. An area on the right side of the receiver shows discoloration around the magazine catch. The bolt shows operational wear. The screw heads show use. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition as refinished.
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.
The top front of the bolt carrier has an integral stripper clip guide for loading the magazine while inserted.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with a magazine. The 10-round magazine shows scrapes, scratches and discoloration.
Our Assessment: Oh la la! A mil-surplus that some might call the ugly step-sister of the M1 Garand or M1 Carbine, this rifle offers flexibility with its lightweight build, ability to take detachable magazines, and rifle grenade launcher. This French MAS MLE 1949 is a scarce French Military Rifle as only around 20,000 were made. It has deep markings on the receiver and a good bore that can still put a ton of lead down range. This MAS 1949 was originally made with a grenade launcher and still has its sights. Claim this rare French semi auto and add to your Military collection or arsenal before it’s gone!. Good luck!
