Hungarian FÉG 35M Puska Bolt Action Rifle 8x56mmR 23.5” Barrel, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB# WY240910JH014
Make: Fegyver- és Gépgyártó Részvénytársaság (Arms and Machine Manufacturing Company), Hungary
Model: 35M Puska
Serial Number: A 1061
Year of Manufacture: 1935 to 1950s
Caliber: 8x56mmR
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle Fed By External Magazines.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “BUDAPEST 35M”. The barrel is marked, “Bp 38 / A-1061” with a proof. The buttplate is marked, “A-1061”.
Barrel Length: 23.5”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded triangular post dovetailed to a raised base, the rear sight is an adjustable V-notch tangent rear sight marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a capped forend/bayonet lug, barrel band w/ sling bar & loop, finger grooves, stock collar w/ sling bar, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are small chips throughout. There is a crack behind the receiver. The LOP from the front of the trigger to the back of the stock is 14 1/8” The stock rates in about Good overall condition for a C&R.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is deep. There is light to moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. There is light thinning, patina, scratches, and handling marks throughout. There is moderate action wear. The markings are clear. The screwheads are lightly tooled. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as refurbished.
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 Hungarian FÉG 35M Puska is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 8x56mmR, produced by the Fegyver- és Gépgyár (FÉG) factory in Budapest. Developed during the 1930s, the 35M was Hungary’s standard service rifle leading into World War II, showcasing Hungary’s efforts to establish an indigenous small arms industry. Designed with influences from the Mannlicher–Schönauer and Mannlicher rifles, the FÉG 35M Puska was sturdy, reliable, and built to suit the needs of Hungarian forces. The 35M Puska was widely issued to Hungarian troops during World War II and saw extensive service on the Eastern Front alongside Axis forces. Hungarian soldiers valued the rifle for its reliability in harsh conditions, though it was eventually replaced by the Mosin Nagant that was being produced domestically. Despite this, it remained in service post-war, with many rifles being retained for training or reserve purposes.
Today, the FÉG 35M Puska is considered a collector’s piece, particularly for those interested in Hungarian or World War II firearms. Its unique design and historical significance make it a valued addition, and examples in good condition are prized for their craftsmanship and the insight they offer into Hungary’s wartime history. -R.E.
