French MAS MLE 1936 Bolt Action Rifle In .308 Winchester, 1936 – 1945

SOLD FOR: $711.00

WOA#: WY240316RG024

Make: Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS)

Model: 1936

Serial Number: FH95707

Year of Manufacture: 1936 – 1945

Caliber: .308 Winchester

Action Type: Bolt action, 10 round internal magazine

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked, “XXFRANCE MAS MLE 1936 / .308” The bottom of the trigger guard is marked, “54712” The bayonet is marked, “24”

Barrel Length: 22”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is blade post dovetailed into a barrel mounted base with a hood. The rear sight is a sliding escalator assembly marked out to 12.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece wood stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, barrel band with stacking rod and bayonet lug, barrel band with sling loop, and a metal buttplate with a rubber boot. There are compression marks, scuffs, and scratches throughout the wood. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: 5 round internal mag.

Type of Finish: Parkerized.

Finish Originality: Original.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is sharp. There is faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 8/10 for a C&R.

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 90% of its metal finish. There are scuffs and scratches throughout the metal surfaces. There is wear to the finish on the receiver,the barrel bands, the trigger guard assembly, the magazine, and the barrel exterior. The rear surface of the receiver and the bolt show usage wear. The screw heads show signs of light to moderate use. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good 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 MAS MLE 1936 rifle, originally chambered in 7.5x54mm French, is a significant piece of French military history developed by Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS). Adopted in the late 1930s, it served as the standard infantry rifle for French forces, known for its robust bolt action mechanism and reliability in combat. Over time, many MAS MLE 1936 rifles underwent conversion to .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO), a popular and powerful cartridge used widely by NATO countries. This adaptation aimed to modernize the rifle and align it with standardized NATO ammunition, enhancing its effectiveness and compatibility in military operations. The .308 Winchester cartridge offers superior ballistic performance compared to the original 7.5x54mm French round, featuring enhanced accuracy and effective range suitable for medium to long-distance engagements. This caliber upgrade ensured the MAS MLE 1936 remained relevant and capable in evolving military environments. Equipped with iron sights, adjustable for elevation, the rifle provides adequate accuracy for most practical purposes. Some variants may offer provisions for mounting optics or other accessories, further enhancing its versatility and adaptability to different tactical needs.

Originally seeing service in World War II and subsequent conflicts, the MAS MLE 1936 in .308 Winchester has earned a reputation for its historical significance, reliable performance, and adaptability. It remains valued among collectors and enthusiasts for its blend of classic military design and modern ballistic capabilities, making it a sought-after piece in military history and firearms communities alike. -R.E.