French MAS MLE 1949 7.5×54 Semi-Auto Rifle 1949-56 C&R w/ Mag, Sling
SOLD FOR: $755.77
WOA#: WY240506MK001
Make: Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS), France
Model: MLE 1949
Serial Number: F 38840
Year of Manufacture: Approximately 1949 to 1956
Caliber: 7.5x54mm (7.5 French)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “MAS MLE 1949 / CAL 7,5” and with the serial number. The bottom of the trigger guard and bottom of the forend are marked with matching serial numbers. The bottom of the bayonet is marked “77”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall post set between 2 protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture attached to a sliding escalator. A screw on the right rear allows for adjustment for windage. It is marked from “2-12”. The left side of the receiver has a scope rail machined into it.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecap with stacking loop, large hole for the included bayonet, barrel band with sling ring, sling bar, sling well, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate shows scrapes, scratches and surface erosion. The wood shows numerous scrapes, scratches, and compression marks. Several have damaged or removed small portions of the surface wood. The LOP measures 12 7/8 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rates in about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The barrel has been counterbored to about 1/2 of an inch back from the muzzle. The bore is gray and the rifling is deep. There is erosion in the bore. It is more prominent in the grooves and near the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 87% of its current metal finish. The metal shows scrapes, scratches, discoloration from oxidation and thinning on the leading edges of the metal. An area on the right side of the receiver shows discoloration around the magazine catch. The bolt shows operational wear. The screw heads show use. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
The top front of the bolt carrier has an integral stripper clip guide for loading the magazine while inserted.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with an original 10rd magazine and its leather sling in good condition.
Our Assessment: The French MAS Mle 1949 is a semi-automatic rifle designed and manufactured by the French government-owned Manufacture d’armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS). Developed in the post-World War II era, it was intended to replace the bolt-action rifles then in service with the French military. Chambered in the 7.5×54mm French cartridge, the MAS Mle 1949 is known for its robust construction, reliability, and accuracy.
The MAS Mle 1949 operates on a direct impingement gas system, which ensures smooth cycling and consistent performance. It features a 10-round detachable box magazine that can also be loaded using stripper clips. The rifle has a solid, durable design with a fixed wooden stock and handguard, providing a classic military appearance and comfortable handling. The receiver and barrel are made from high-quality steel, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to wear.
This French MAS MLE 1949 is a scarce French Military Rifle as only around 20,000 were made. It has deep markings on the receiver and a good bore that can still put a ton of lead down range. This is a very nice and collectable French semi auto to add to your Military collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
