MAS 49/56 French Semi-Automatic Rifle, 7.5x54mm, Bayonet, 3x Mags, & Kit
SOLD FOR: $1,179.99
LSB#: WY250201TH010
Make: Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS)
Model: MAS 49/56
Serial Number: G91104
Year of Manufacture: 1949–1965
Caliber: 7.5x54mm French
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated with Detachable Box Magazine
Barrel Length: Approximately 20.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a 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.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle features a hardwood stock with an integrated semi pistol grip and handguard. The stock has a straight comb and a thick rubber buttpad marked “MAS 1962.” A sling is attached to the left side, running through a sling loop near the magazine well and another loop at the left side of the forearm. The wood has scattered handling marks, scratches, and compressions, particularly on the forend and grip area. There are no major cracks or structural issues, and the stock remains solid. The stock rates in about Very Good condition.
Magazines & Condition: Comes with a total of 3x 10 round box magazines, in very Good Condition
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “MAS / Mle 1949-56 / CAL 7.5” along with the serial number “G91104.” The buttpad is marked “MAS 1962.” Various inspection and proof marks are present throughout, including the arsenal markings and small factory stamps. The barrel is marked ‘’74930’’
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright, the rifling is present. There is some light visible erosion in the bore, and some stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original finish. There are areas of thinning on high-contact points, including the receiver, charging handle, and gas tube. Some minor surface wear is visible on the barrel, along with a large dragline on the right side of stock. The finish remains even and consistent throughout. The overall condition is Very Good.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The MAS 49/56 operates via a direct impingement gas system, similar to the AR-15, and features a tilting bolt design. The rifle also includes an integral grenade launcher sight and gas cut-off system. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its original sling, rubber butt pad, 3x magazines, Bayonet, grenade launcher adaptor, cleaning kit with various parts and cleaning kit pouches.
Our Assessment: The MAS 49/56 is an updated version of the original MAS 49, incorporating several improvements to make it more compact and versatile for French forces. It retains the reliable direct impingement gas system while adding a shorter barrel, a grenade launcher, and a rubber recoil pad. Used by the French military from the 1950s through the 1980s, this rifle saw service in conflicts across Africa and Southeast Asia. Chambered in 7.5x54mm French, the MAS 49/56 offers a balance of power and controllability. Its robust construction and simple gas system make it a highly reliable semi-automatic rifle. Collectors of French military firearms will appreciate this example, especially given its well-preserved condition and original markings. This is a fantastic opportunity to own a piece of French military history. Whether you’re a collector, shooter, or military surplus enthusiast, the MAS 49/56 is a unique rifle that stands out in any collection! “Well….you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie?” -Edge-
