Egyptian FN49 23” Barrel 8mm Mauser Semi-Auto Rifle, 1949-1952 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,300.00
LSB# LSB251027RL003
Make: FNH, Belgium
Model: 49
Serial Number: 25456
Year of Manufacture: 1949 – 1952 / C&R
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Semi Auto, Tilting Lock Short Stroke Piston, Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side is marked with, “25456” in Arabic with a matching import serial number. The top of the receiver is marked with a crown. There is an import mark on the barrel. There are various Arabic and Belgian markings throughout. The bolt is non-matched.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches, 25 3/4 “ with muzzle device.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded blade post set atop a raised block. The rear sight is an aperture elevator sight marked to 10 in Arabic.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a three piece wood set with a capped forend & bayonet lug, barrel band w/ sling loop, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, steel buttplate. There are minimal handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates at about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Original to Importer Refurbishment.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates in about 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are faint handling marks throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent 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: None.
Our Assessment: This Egyptian FN Model 49 represents one of the most important transitional battle rifles of the immediate postwar era, produced by Fabrique Nationale in Belgium and adopted by Egypt between 1949 and 1952. The FN-49 was among the first widely issued semi-automatic service rifles following World War II, bridging the gap between traditional bolt-action infantry rifles and the fully automatic and select-fire designs that would soon follow. Egypt’s contract rifles are particularly notable for their chambering in 8mm Mauser, retaining continuity with earlier service ammunition while pairing it with a modern self-loading platform. The long 23-inch barrel, robust receiver, and adjustable gas system reflect FN’s emphasis on durability and controllability when adapting the design to full-power rifle cartridges. Chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, the FN-49 offered substantial firepower and effective range, characteristics well suited to the doctrine and terrain of Middle Eastern service at the time. This example presents in exceptionally strong overall condition, retaining approximately 99 percent of its metal finish with only faint handling marks visible. The bore is gray with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating about 7 out of 10, consistent with military use and period ammunition rather than neglect. The stock is particularly well preserved, showing minimal handling marks and no cracks or chips, an attribute that is increasingly uncommon among FN-49 rifles, many of which exhibit heavier wear or storage-related damage.
Although the bolt is non-matching, the rifle retains its correct Egyptian configuration with Arabic-marked sights, appropriate military furniture, and clear Arabic and Belgian markings throughout. The overall presentation reflects careful storage and limited post-service use, resulting in an Excellent overall condition rating. As a Curio and Relic eligible FN-49, this rifle stands as a significant example of early Cold War small arms development and FN’s influence on semi-automatic rifle design worldwide. -R.E.
