Globe Firearms Model 555 Mohawk SVT-40 Semi-Auto Rifle In .303 Brit C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,580.00
WOA#: WY240603KN097
Make: Russia, Sporterized by Globe Firearms LTD.
Model: 555 Mohawk
Serial Number: None.
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1940s
Caliber: .303 British
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Short stroke Tilting Bolt
Markings: The barrel is marked, “MODEL 555 / GLOBE FIREARMS LTD. / .303 BRITISH” The underside of the bolt is marked, “E1375” The bolt handle is marked, “253”
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to a ramped base. The rear sight is a U-notch set into a sliding escalator assembly marked out to 15”
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece walnut stock with a capped forend, capped semi-pistol grip, and serrated plastic buttplate. There are two sling loops. The buttplate has broken off at the heel. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There is a crack at the wrist. There are no chips. There are Overall, the stock is in Very Good Condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10rd Magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Sporterized.
Bore Condition: The bore is black and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 2/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is thinning, scratches, and nicks throughout the finish. The leading edges are worn. There are light spots of rust and patina throughout. The bolt was left in the white from the factory. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as a C&R.
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: Total of 1 magazine.
Our Assessment: The Globe Firearms Model 555 Mohawk SVT-40 Semi-Auto Rifle in .303 is a rare and intriguing variant of the Soviet SVT-40 rifle, adapted for the .303 British cartridge. The SVT-40, originally designed by Soviet engineer Fedor Tokarev, was a semi-automatic rifle that saw service during World War II as part of the Soviet Red Army’s effort to modernize its infantry with semi-automatic firearms. The Globe Firearms Model 555 Mohawk is a post-war conversion that reflects an interesting cross-cultural adaptation, involving the integration of Soviet and British military technology. Globe Firearms, a Canadian company, took surplus SVT-40 rifles and converted them to fire the .303 British cartridge, which was the standard military round for the British Empire and Commonwealth forces, including Canada, during both World Wars. This conversion was likely done to make the rifles more commercially viable in the Canadian and British markets, where .303 British ammunition was more commonly available than the Soviet 7.62x54mmR round. The conversion process would have involved modifications to the barrel, chamber, and magazine to accommodate the different dimensions and ballistics of the .303 round. The Globe Firearms Model 555 Mohawk maintained the basic features of the SVT-40, including its gas-operated action and semi-automatic capabilities. However, the conversion to .303 British created a unique rifle that combined Soviet engineering with a cartridge deeply embedded in British military history. These rifles are rare and sought after by collectors due to their unusual origins and limited production.
Overall, the Globe Firearms Model 555 Mohawk SVT-40 in .303 British is a unique semi-automatic rifle that represents a blend of Soviet and British firearms heritage. Converted from surplus Soviet SVT-40 rifles by Globe Firearms, this rare variant offers a fascinating example of post-war firearms adaptation, making it a prized piece for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate both its historical significance and engineering ingenuity. -R.E.
