Dutch M1948 Carbine Municipal Police Corps 8mm Bolt Action Rifle, 1949
SOLD FOR: $1,625.00
LSB#: WY241022CF003
Make: FN Herstal, Belgium
Model: 1948 Queen Juliana Municipal Police Corps Carbine
Serial Number: 109
Year of Manufacture: 1949
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with a Crown over J. The left side of the receiver is marked, “109”. The left side is marked, “GEM.POL.A’DAM / FAB.NAT. D’ARMES de GUERRE HERSTAL-BELGIQUE”. The stock is serial matched to the receiver, the bolt is not. There are several small proofs throughout.
Barrel Length: 17.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular post set atop a ramped base with serrations. The rear sight is a V-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood with a steel barrel band/bayonet lug w/ cleaning rod, barrel band with sling loop & sling bar, through bolt, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and ribbed steel buttplate. There are pressure dents and scratches throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
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, this bore rates 10/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks and scratches throughout. The action has faint wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Dutch M1948 Queen Juliana Municipal Police Corps carbine is a fascinating bolt-action rifle with historical significance tied to post-World War II Dutch security forces. Chambered in 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm), this carbine was designed specifically for the Municipal Police Corps, reflecting the Netherlands’ efforts to rearm and modernize its security forces in the wake of the war. With its compact design and durable construction, the M1948 was well-suited for urban law enforcement and other roles requiring a lightweight and maneuverable firearm. The 8mm Mauser cartridge, a proven and powerful round, ensured the M1948 provided sufficient stopping power and range for its intended applications. The bolt-action mechanism, derived from the iconic Mauser design, is known for its smooth operation and reliability, making the carbine both practical and effective for police use. Its shortened barrel and lighter weight allowed for improved handling, particularly in confined spaces or during patrol duties, while still maintaining the accuracy and durability expected of a Mauser-based firearm.
What makes the M1948 especially intriguing is its connection to Queen Juliana, whose reign marked a period of recovery and modernization for the Netherlands. For collectors and enthusiasts, this carbine offers a unique glimpse into the post-war reorganization of Dutch security forces and the continuation of the Mauser legacy in specialized roles. Whether appreciated for its historical context, its compact and functional design, or its association with Dutch history, the M1948 Queen Juliana Municipal Police Corps carbine stands out as a rare and significant firearm that bridges the gap between military and law enforcement applications. -R.E.
