(N) INTERESTING “U.S.” MANUFACTURED BROWNING 1917A1

Manufacturer’s block on incoming Form 3 indicates simply, “US”, and BATF researching back to the early 1970’s indicates this is consistent with their records. This 1917A1 Browning water cooled machine gun is hand stamped on right sideplate below feedway, “NO (serial number)” “BROWNING MACHINE GUN”, "U S CAL 30 M1917A1”, “MFG BY ROCK ISLAND”. Otherwise top of bronze trunnion exhibits the only other markings, letters “T” and “D”. Rear sight is graduated in yards and marked “M2”. Rear sight traverse screw is a 2 - 1/2” long replacement which does not move sight back and forth, which can be moved by hand. Steel chain and drain hardware without cork present at end cap as is drain cap without fiber thumbpiece. None of this affects serviceability. Filler cap at rear of water jacket in good condition with thumbpiece and retention chain. Included with this lot is a Colt commercial tripod complete with original brass identification plate #149, and two green cloth belts (one is World War II 250 round, the other a shorter brass grommet post-War belt. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is a fine smooth dull gray refinish thinning to gray patina at high edges with visible tool marks underneath the finish below the sideplate markings at the trunnion pin. One can see three discolored round spots on the right sideplate to the rear of the charging handle also. Rear sight spring not serviceable and ladder moves up and down freely. Water jacket has no dents and is also a smooth gray finish with some scratches and handling marks. Bronze trunnion a pleasing dark patina. Mechanics are crisp and positive. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright. Bolt is a gray patina with scattered brown patina. Bakelite grips extremely fine with chip out of bottom left panel (not uncommon). Tripod is fine original green paint with over 90% coverage. Belts very good and serviceable. A very nice Browning 1917A1 machine gun. 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. JWK 2020-05-019 Accessories: Tripod, two cloth belts Barrel Length: 20" Caliber/Bore: .30-06 Springfield FFL Status: NFA Manufacturer: Rock Island Armory Model: 1917A1 Serial Number: 315336