M1918A2 Browning Automatic Rifle B.A.R 30-06 24” w/ 80% Receiver Parts Kit
SOLD FOR: $4125
WOA#: WY221011GM001
Make: Browning / Philadelphia Ordnance 80% Receiver
Model: Browning Automatic Rifle, B.A.R.
Serial Number: NSN
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked, “6508769” with a proof near the base. The left side of the receiver is marked, “F A S” near the selector switch. The bottom of the magazine is marked with an “S”.
Barrel Length: 24”. 27” with Flash Hider
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a flip up ladder sight that serves as a rear V Notch sight when folded down. The sights are authentic 1918A2 sights which are numbered for M2 Ball Ammunition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are correct 1918A2 stocks with a 1918A2 synthetic black fiberglass buttstock and appropriate Walnut handguard with finger grooves. The buttstock and handguard have some light scratches and general wear. The metal folding buttplate has some significant rusting. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the stocks overall condition. They rate in Very Good Condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd BAR magazine in Very Good Condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is minimal to no visible erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 75% of its original finish on its original parts. The 80% receiver makes this a Parts Kit and is not operational as is. The screw heads are sharp. The barrel and bipod show some thinning with very minor pitting in a few places. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle Parts Kit rates in about Fine+ condition with its Excellent Bore and Fine-Very Good rated Parts.
Mechanics: This is a parts kit on an 80% receiver made by Philadelphia Ordnance. The receiver was not made to receive the Slide and Guide assembly without additional machining and is ATF approved as a non firearm. However, this kit does come with those parts to complete the Kit, they are just not within the receiver. The receiver has a mag release in front of the trigger guard that loosely holds the magazine in place from falling out. The receiver is made to the exact dimensions of a BAR 1918A2 receiver and accepts a BAR barrel, trigger housing, and other external components.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Original Purchase Receipt dated 1995 from Paragon Sales and Service Inc, Philadelphia Ordnance Receiver Spec and Dimension Sheets, Philadelphia Ordnance BAR Warning Paper, 2x Department of the Army Technical Manual for M1918A2 BAR 1969 & 1970, Parts Number List and diagram, ATF Approval Letter dated March 18 1991, Two Philadelphia Ordnance Invoices.
Our Assessment: Despite the immense breadth of his work, the BAR is one of John Browning’s most iconic and forward-thinking designs. Intended to replace the long-recoil Chauchat, which didn’t function particularly well when converted to .30-06, and the Hotchkiss 1909 which was heavier than even the 16 pound BAR, Browning’s design was purpose-built for the issue cartridge, designed and built in America, and was more suitable for the Army’s intended use than either of the guns it replaced. The M1918 could be transported, operated and reloaded by a single man and was chambered for the standard .30-06 Springfield cartridge. It would go on to see service in the United States military through both World Wars, the Korean War and even saw some use in Vietnam. This is a master BAR parts kit with the Philadelphia Ordnance 80% receiver machined from 8620 Steel and all of the components to complete it. Don’t miss out on one of the most iconic guns to have ever existed. Good Luck and Happy Bidding!
