French MAS 49/56 7.62 NATO 18.5″ Semi Auto Rifle & APX Scope 1949-1965 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,555.00
LSB#: LSB251029CW012
Make: MAS (Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne)
Model: 49/56
Serial Number: H31306
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1949-1965 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: 7.62x39mm NATO / .308 Winchester
Action Type: Semi Automatic, Detachable Box Mag
Barrel Length: 18.5” 20” with the muzzle device.
Sights/Optics: The front sight is an ear protected post adjustable for elevation. The rear sight is a tangent leaf marked from 200 to 1200 meters with a rotating aperture. The rifle also features a scope rail on the left side of the receiver for mounting an optic. Included is an APX L806 scope ready to be mounted to the left side of the receiver. The glass is clear and the scope rates in Very Good condition.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle features a stock with a semi pistol grip and two-piece handguard. The stock has a straight comb, smooth metal buttplate, and a thick rubber buttpad marked “MAS 1962″. There are sling attachment points on the left side of the buttstock and forend. The wood has moderate pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches throughout. The wood next to the band on the forend appears to have been worked on. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is fairly sharp. There is mild erosion throughout and some light oxidation towards the muzzle end of the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. There is moderate finish wear from handling and operation. There are no major blemishes aside from surface wear. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One magazine, APX L806 scope, leather scope case, and a scope case sling
Our Assessment: This is a classic French service rifle representing the final evolution of the MAS self loading infantry series. The 18.5 inch barrel gives the rifle a compact, well balanced profile while maintaining the robust operating characteristics for which the 49/56 is known. The rifle’s clean lines, integral grenade launching hardware, and distinctive direct impingement system reflect France’s unique approach to postwar military rifle design.
Mechanically, the MAS 49/56 platform is valued for reliability and straightforward maintenance. The 7.62x51mm chambering reflects later conversions and updates made to align with NATO standardization, adding practical ammunition compatibility while retaining the rifle’s original handling traits.
The included APX L806 scope adds notable interest, representing period French optical equipment associated with designated marksman use. The optic complements the rifle’s military profile and enhances its historical and collector appeal.
Historically, the MAS 49/56 served as the primary French infantry rifle during the Cold War and saw use in conflicts such as Algeria. Its rugged construction, distinctive ergonomics, and service history make it one of the most recognizable European battle rifles of the era. As a C&R eligible example with a correct military optic, this rifle stands as a desirable and historically significant representation of French small arms development in the mid twentieth century. -CR
