Johnson Automatics Model 1941 .30-06 Rare Dutch Semi Automatic Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $8037
LSB#: 211002NI32
Make: Johnson Automatics
Model: 1941
Serial Number: 8800
Year of Manufacture: 1941-1945
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Automatic, 10 Round Internal Rotary Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with patent information, the serial number “8800”, “CAL. 30-’06 SEMI AUTO.” and “ ‘JOHNSON AUTOMATICS’ / MODEL OF 1941 / MADE IN PROVIDENCE, R.I., U.S.A.”. The right rear of the receiver is marked “CRANSTON / ARMS / CO” in an inverted “triangle” with a small “star” above it. The “triangle” was a Dutch National symbol and the small “star” is a Dutch acceptance mark (page 251 of Bruce Canfield’s book, Johnson Rifles and Machine Guns). The side of the bolt is marked “84761”. Johnson made no attempt at the factory to use matching part numbers (page 251). The face of the barrel collar is marked “.30-06” on top and “41” on the bottom. The top of the barrel shank is marked “J.A. / .30-‘06”. The barrel shank and barrel lug are both marked “4419E”. The bottom of the barrel shank is marked with a “circle” containing “I sword O”. The belly of the stock is marked “2”. The left side of the butt is marked “39”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 22 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is a windage adjustable aperture. The adjustment knob functions. The aperture is set on an elevator that is marked “M2” on the left. It is marked “METERS 0-1000” and “1 3 5 7 9” on the right.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The 2 piece oil stained hardwood stock has a pistol grip, several holes for mounting screws, channel under the forearm for the takedown lever, 2 sling loops and a metal buttplate. The hole on the right front of the forearm is a takedown button. It can be pressed with the tip of a bullet to release the barrel takedown lever that is on the bottom front of the forearm. The buttplate shows small scrapes & scratches as well as discoloration. The wood shows scrapes, small scratches and small compression marks. These marks have been oiled over. The LOP measures 13 ¼ inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good Plus to Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The muzzle and grooves are grey. The rifling is deep. There is erosion at the muzzle and in the grooves. The bore shows an M.E. of 2.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 92% of its metal finish. The metal shows scrapes & small scratches. The receiver shows small areas of discoloration from oxidation. The left rear of the receiver shows a spot of pin prick surface erosion. The magazine shows discoloration from oxidation. The screw heads show heavy use. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus 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: The rifle comes with a leather sling that is marked “EL INDIO”, “MACHINE / WORKS”, “7 86”. It shows scrapes and discoloration. The buckles also show oxidation. It is in about Very Good Plus to Fine condition.
Our Assessment: This Rare Johnson Automatics Model 1941 is in great shape for a Military Rifle of its age. It is over 75 years old and still has crisp markings on the metal. The stampings on the metal parts tell a story about the rifle. They include a Dutch acceptance mark. A limited number of these rifles were used by American troops during WWII and are prized by collectors.
If you are wondering how a rare Dutch Military Rifle is still in such good shape; we may have the answer.
The following information can be found (with much more detail) on pages 73 to 87 and pages 216 to 223 of Bruce Canfield’s book, Johnson Rifles and Machine Guns: In July of 1940 the Netherlands (Dutch) placed an initial contract for 10,200 Johnson Model 1941 Rifles. At the time Johnson Automatics did not have the production capabilities to fulfill the contract. Johnson had to develop partnerships to fulfill production of the rifles. Johnson partnered with the Universal Winding Company of Cranston, Rhode Island to form the Cranston Arms Co.; hence the Cranston Arms Co. “triangle” stamping on all Model 1941 Rifles. The “triangle” was a Dutch National symbol… Johnson Automatics went bankrupt in 1949. Many of the leftover Johnson Automatics spare parts and barrels were purchased by an importer who was also able to acquire surplus military M1941 Rifles that had been sold to the Dutch. The Johnson Automatics spare parts & barrels were used to put the surplus Dutch Johnson M1941 Rifles into working order. These rifles were then offered to the public by mail order from the late 1950’s into the late 1960’s. Many were offered in “as is” Military configuration while others were “Sporterized”. The Sporterized rifles featured new barrels made by the Apex Rifle Company of Sun Valley, CA.
Good luck.