Matching Argentine Navy FN-49 Converted 7.62×51 Semi Automatic Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,877.00
LSB#: WY250318BR033
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). (Converted domestically by Metalúrgica Centro)
Model: 1949 (FN 49)
Serial Number: 0830
Year of Manufacture: 1949 to 1951
Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
Action Type: Semi Auto, Short Stroke, Tilting Lock, Detachable Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver has an Argentine crest with, “ARA”. The right side of the receiver is marked, “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE HERSTAL BELGIQUE”. There are small Belgian and Argentine proofs throughout. The barrel has an Import mark.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches, threaded.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked to 10.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock is a two-piece set with a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecaps, barrel band, 2 sling loops, and a steel buttplate w/ trapdoor. The buttplate shows finish wear. There are pressure dents, scratches, and small chips dents throughout. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13.25 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is little to no erosion throughout with light lead fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. Some of the enamel has worn off in places. There is heavy patna on the forend cap. The action has light wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tooled. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with 1x 20rd magazines in Very Good condition.
Our Assessment: The FN-49 is a landmark in the evolution of semi-automatic military rifles, bridging the gap between WWII bolt-actions and the modern battle rifle. Originally chambered in 7.65 Argentine for Argentine military service, this rifle was later converted to 7.62x51mm NATO during the 1960s by the Argentine Navy at Metalúrgica Centro. These conversions were done to standardize ammunition across NATO-compatible platforms, and the rifles were updated with newly chambered barrels, modified receivers, and appropriate magazines—though the overall design and robust build quality of FN’s original contract remained intact. Marked with the Argentine crest and “ARA” (Armada de la República Argentina), these are among the rarest and most desirable variants of the FN-49. This example is a scarce matching-numbers Argentine Navy conversion, retaining about 80% of its original black enamel finish with signs of honest service wear. The bore is excellent, rating 9 out of 10, with sharp rifling and minimal fouling. While the hardwood stock shows pressure dents, scratches, and wear consistent with military use, it remains solid and crack-free. The action cycles correctly, and the rifle includes a single 20-round magazine in very good condition. These rifles were never widely issued and saw limited production, making them a prized find among collectors of Cold War military arms.
This FN-49 stands out for its rarity, historic military conversion, and mechanical integrity. As one of the most sought-after postwar semi-autos, the Argentine Navy FN-49 in 7.62 NATO offers a compelling blend of collectibility and shooting performance. Whether you’re building a Cold War collection or looking for a unique shooter-grade rifle with historical provenance, this is a superb opportunity to own a seldom-seen piece of Argentine and FN military history. -R.E.
