(N) FINE CONDITION SPECIMEN OF HISTORIC WORLD WAR I FRENCH CHAUCHAT MODEL 1915 MACHINE GUN WITH

Very fine specimen of the French Chauchat Model 1915 machine gun. Produced quickly, often using Lebel rifle barrels on hand, when the French realized they were behind on having automatic rifles, this model saw widespread use during World War I with not only the French but also with the American Expeditionary Force, initially in the French 8mm Lebel, as this specimen is, and later in .30-06 as the Model of 1918. Many were subsequently sold to Finland when the French updated their machine gun models. About 3100 of these guns in Finland were imported into the United States between 1959 – 62, hence many specimens seen in this country have markings as this one does. Most, if not all, of these imported guns were grievously deactivated prior to their release into the American collector’s market. This cataloger had the opportunity to meet and talk with the person who accomplished the actual deactivation work on these. This specimen is marked “C.S.R.G.” with non-matching numbered upper and lower. Barrel is marked with an “N” indicating conversion by the French to the “Ball N” ammunition. Modern loaded ammunition runs just fine through these. Three original magazines with original green painted wooden box and modern hard transportation case are included with this lot. Electronic NFA registry indicates “FRANCE” as the manufacturer. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is very good to fine original blue finish thinning to a gray and brown patina. Magazines are in commensurate condition. Wood furnishings are extremely fine and have some chips and handling marks but still remain very strong and serviceable. Wood magazine box retains original green paint and is very serviceable. Bore is fine, with quite a bit of shine with some light pitting (really good for a Chauchat barrel relative to others out there). Bolt face is extremely fine (again, not often found this nice). Mechanics are crisp. This is a select-fire machine gun. This gun, although unquestionably used is quite a nice specimen of a very widely used and historic WWI machine gun. Consigner states that this gun runs well. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4 AS CURIO AND RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2024-05-048. Accessories: Case, Magazines in box Barrel Length: 22" Caliber/Bore: 8mm FFL Status: NFA Manufacturer: Chauchat Model: 1915 Serial Number: 226348