Venezuelan FN49 Fabrique Nationale FN-49 7×57 Semi Auto Rifle 1949-1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1392
LSB#: 210722RD12
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Venezuelan Contract Rifle.
Model: 1949 (FN49)
Serial Number: 5006
Year of Manufacture: 1949 – 1961
Caliber: 7x57mm (7mm Mauser)
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Markings: There is no visible import mark. The top of the receiver is marked with the Venezuelan crest, “* / E” and with an “arrow” (2 Belgian proofs). The rear of the bolt carrier, the right side of the bolt, the right side of the receiver, and the right side of the top cover are all marked with the serial number, “500`6”. The right of the receiver is also marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE_HERSTAL BELGIQUE”. The top of the gas tube cap is marked “A”. The left side of the front sight is marked “72”. The right side of the butt is marked with a circular cartouche that reads “FUERZAS • ARMADAS • VENEZUELA” (Forces Armed Venezuela). The forend wood in front of the magazine is marked with a circular stamp that contains cursive “letters”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 24 1/2” to the end of the muzzle break.
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded post with protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked from “1-10”.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a three-piece hardwood with two-piece handguard, finger grooved friends, semi-pistol grip, and a corrugated sheet steel buttplate. On either side there are scattered light nicks, dings, compressions along with more notable nicks on the right side. The handguard has a few light compressions along the top. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has for the most part gone to a light patina, and to white along the edge. There is moderate pitting from surface oxidation at the heel and toe. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is quite bright and the rifling is well-defined. There is no erosion, but there is light-to-moderate stubborn fouling throughout the grooves.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 88% of its metal finish. The barrel and front sight have scattered light nicks and scuffs along with minor thinning on most edges. The receiver has light thinning on most edges along with intermittent minor nicks. The barrel band and sling swivels have minor thinning and light nicks throughout. Screws have light tool marks, and all markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This rifle includes one (1) 10-round magazine.
Our Assessment: This FN 49 was made in Belgium by Fabrique Nationale as a Contract Rifle for the Venezuelan Armed Forces. It has a great Venezuelan crest and nice deep markings on the metal. This Model 49 even has a deep Venezuelan Armed Forces cartouche on the buttstock. This rifle looks great and is worthy of a place in your safe.