MAS MLE 49/56 7.5 French Semi-Auto Rifle, Grenade Launcher, Scope, Mags C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,050.00

WOA#:  WY240319IK009

Make: MAS

Model: MLE 1949-56

Serial Number: G39921

Year of Manufacture: 1960-1962

Caliber: 7.5 French

Action Type: Semi-Automatic

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “G 39921”, “MAS MLE 1949-56 / CAL.7,5”, “P86”, “FRANCE C.A.I. ST. ALB. VT.”.  The rear of the receiver is marked “G / 39921”.

Barrel Length: 20”.  20.75” with the fixed flash hider/Grenade Launcher.

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is post sight with protective ears along with a grenade launching sight. Has an adjustable elevation peep rear sight.  The front sight ears are slightly bent. The left side of the receiver has a milled scope rail.  This rifle comes with a French APX L806 scope with a German Post Reticle and rubber eye piece.  The sight picture is clear. The scope rates in Fine condition.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stock is 3 piece wood with a nylon handle on the bolt carrier, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling bar, stock band with sling ring, metal butplate, and slip on rubber buttpad.  The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. Side of the receiver has milled rails for adding accessories. There are a few light handling marks scattered about.  The bottom of the forend in front of the stock band has a small chip.  There are no cracks. There is finish loss around the buttstock where the rubber buttpad rubs. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish:  Parkerized

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition:  This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows loose storage wear all over the receiver on both sides as well as on top of the BCG.   The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition for a C&R rifle.

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 its original magazine, leather sling, its APX L806 scope as mentioned above with case and manual, 3x 20rd magazines, 2x 10rd magazines, leather cleaning kit, and night sights attachment.

Our Assessment:  The French MAS Mle 1949-56 is a semi-automatic rifle developed and manufactured by the French government-owned Manufacture d’armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS). It is an updated version of the earlier MAS-49, which was introduced post-World War II to replace bolt-action rifles in the French military. The MAS Mle 1949-56 is chambered in 7.5×54mm French, a cartridge specifically designed for French military firearms.

The MAS 1949-56 features a robust and reliable design, with a direct impingement gas-operated system that ensures smooth cycling and operation. It has a 10-round detachable box magazine, which can also be reloaded using stripper clips, and a fixed magazine variant exists as well. The rifle includes a chrome-lined barrel, which enhances its durability and resistance to corrosion, making it well-suited for harsh environments.

One of the significant updates in the 1949-56 model is the incorporation of a grenade launcher and a built-in grenade sight, allowing the rifle to launch rifle grenades effectively. The rifle also comes equipped with a rubber recoil pad and a new muzzle device that serves as a flash suppressor and grenade launcher attachment. These modifications improve the versatility and functionality of the rifle in various combat scenarios.

Renowned for its reliability and robust construction, the MAS Mle 1949-56 saw extensive use in various conflicts, including the Algerian War and the early stages of the Vietnam War. Its combination of historical significance and practical performance makes it a popular choice among military surplus collectors and shooting enthusiasts. This rifle comes with some hard to come by accessories including its original scope and a set of extended magazines.  This is an excellent collector’s set and will make a great shooter if you can find some French ammunition. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.