Fabrique Nationale FN49 Argentine Navy 7.62×51 NATO Semi-Auto Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,300.00
LSB#: WY250120KN005
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Argentine Navy Contract Rifle
Model: 1949 (FN 49)
Serial Number: 5497
Year of Manufacture: 1953
Caliber: 7.62×51 NATO
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with the Argentinean crest. The left side of the receiver is marked “ARA” (Armada Republica Argentina) in a “box”, with Belgian proofs and “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE-HERSTAL-BELGIQUE”. The front right of the receiver, the right side of the top cover, the right of the bolt, are each marked with the serial number “5497”. The right of the stock is also marked “29978” above the trigger. The top right of the top cover is marked with Belgian proofs. The top of the gas tube cap is marked “A”, the bottom is marked “R”. The top rear of the rear sight is marked “R”.
Barrel Length: 23” The muzzle piece has been removed.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetail set, bladed post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked from “1-10”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecaps, barrel band, two sling loops, scallop for the safety and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are scattered scratches, scuffs, and nicks. There is a repair on the upper handguard. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Black gun paint applied over a Blue finish
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some stubborn fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. There is intermittent finish loss throughout the barrel and receiver. There is thinning and finish loss at most leading edges. The action shows standard operational wear. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The manual bolt-stop functions correctly. The cocking indicator is located at the bottom front of the trigger guard. 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: The rifle comes with a 20 round magazine and an attached leather sling in Good condition.
Our Assessment: This Fabrique Nationale FN49, serial number 5497, is a rare and highly collectible Argentine Navy-contract rifle, manufactured by Fabrique Nationale of Belgium as part of a limited order of only 5,541 rifles purchased by Argentina in 1953. Originally chambered in the 7.65x53mm Mauser cartridge (7.65 Argentine), these rifles were subsequently arsenal converted by the Argentine Navy to fire the standardized 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge by replacing the original barrels. This conversion increased their practicality and allowed continued service within NATO-caliber logistics.
This FN49 remains in Very Good condition, with fully matching serial numbers, save for the stock, and clearly defined Argentine naval markings, including the distinctive Argentine crest and the “ARA” (Armada Republica Argentina) designation. Its finish and woodwork exhibit some modest handling wear. Today, this rifle represents an intriguing piece of military history, combining Belgian craftsmanship, Argentine naval heritage, and NATO standardization, making it particularly appealing to collectors of rare and historically significant military firearms. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
