FN-49 Luxembourg FN49 Matching 1949 .30-06 Semi Automatic Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $3300
LSB#: 230320CM003
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN), Belgium. Luxembourg Contract Rifle.
Model: 1949 (FN 49)
Serial Number: 2721
Year of Manufacture: Early 1950s
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is aperture attached to an escalator assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece hardwood stock has a pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecaps, barrel band, two sling loops, and a corrugated metal buttplate. The buttplate shows scratches and discoloration from oxidation. The barrel band & nose cap show scrapes, thinning and light oxidation. The wood shows scattered scrapes and scratches as well as small spots of discoloration. The LOP measures 12 3/4 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 as refinished.
Type of Finish: Black Gun Paint
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The lands are semi bright. The muzzle and grooves are light gray. The rifling is deep. There is erosion in the bore, mostly in the grooves.
In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 6 out of 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 80% of its metal finish. The metal shows several scrapes & scratches. Many of the marks have removed areas of the paint finish. The exposed metal shows discoloration from oxidation. The screw heads show moderate use. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus 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.
The cocking indicator is located at the bottom front of the trigger guard.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with a 10 round magazine that shows scrapes, scratches and thinning. It appears to function correctly. The rifle has an unmarked leather sling attached.
Our Assessment: This Rare Luxembourg contract FN 49 was produced by Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Belgium. It is chambered in .30-06. It is estimated that less than 10,000 were produced in this contract. The rifle has nice deep markings that include “AL” (Armee Luxembourg) on the receiver as well as matching part numbers on the receiver, top cover, and bolt. This FN 49 looks impressive and will add to your Military collection. It should be lots of fun out at the range too.
…Now go shoot something!
