Matching Luxembourg Contract FN-49 23” .30-06 Semi Automatic Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,697.00
LSB#: LSB251108JT001
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Luxembourg Contract
Model: 1949 (FN 49)
Serial Number: 6421
Year of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Auto, Short Stroke, Tilting Lock, Fixed Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “AL”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “6421 / FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE HERSTAL BELGIQUE” All serialized parts are matching. There are various Belgian proofs throughout.
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 stock is a two piece wood set with a forend cap & bayonet lug, barrel band w/ sling loop, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, sloped comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate w/ storage door. There are light scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no cracks but there are some moderate chips throughout as well as a repair on the forend. The LOP measures 13.25 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good + overall condition.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are some faint handling marks throughout. The action has faint wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as C&R.
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 matching Luxembourg Contract FN Model 1949 represents one of the most desirable postwar variants of Fabrique Nationale’s influential self loading battle rifle. Produced in 1951, the Luxembourg rifles were among the earliest FN-49 contracts and are widely regarded for their quality, conservative military configuration, and limited production numbers. Built by Fabrique Nationale at Herstal, these rifles reflect the immediate post World War II period when European nations sought reliable semi automatic service rifles chambered in proven full power cartridges rather than intermediate rounds. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield, this FN-49 retains the robust short stroke gas system and tilting bolt design that made the model both durable and controllable for a full power semi automatic rifle. The bore is exceptional, rating 9.5 out of 10, with bright surfaces and sharp rifling and no visible erosion, indicating limited use and careful maintenance. Correct military sights are present, with a protected front post and an aperture tangent rear sight marked to 10, reinforcing the rifle’s original service configuration and intended role as a general issue infantry arm.
Overall condition is outstanding, with approximately 99 percent of the original black enamel finish retained and only faint handling marks visible. All serialized parts are matching, a significant factor for collectors of FN contract rifles. The stock shows light service wear with scattered dents and chips along with a repaired forend, yet remains structurally sound and visually consistent with military use, presenting in Very Good Plus condition. Taken as a whole, this Luxembourg FN-49 stands as a highly desirable and well preserved example of early Cold War military rifle development, combining matching numbers, excellent bore quality, and strong historical context. -R.E.