RARE Original Beretta BM59 7.62×51 Italian M14 Rifle M1 Garand Springfield
SOLD FOR: $4200
WOA#: WY230529MB003
Make: Beretta (Springfield Import)
Model: MB59
Serial Number: 0000077
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1980’s
Caliber: .308 / 7.62×51 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Auto
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “P.BERETTA / 7.62mm BM 59 / GardonaV.T. / Italia / 0000077”. The bolt catch is marked, “P.B.BM-59”. The top of the bolt is marked, “P.B. BM59”. The side of the Winter Trigger is marked, “PB. BM-59 TAPc”. The left side of the grenade launcher sight is marked, “PB BM59”. The right side of the gas block is marked, “PB BM59”. The bottom of the Bipod Lug is marked, “PB BM59”. The front of the Gas Block is marked, “PB BM59”. The buttpad is marked, “P.BERETTA ITALY”. The rear sight adjustment knob is marked “PB BM 59”. The left side of the receiver is marked “SPRINGFIELD ARMORY / GENESEO IL USA”.
The Bayonet is marked “AEP 1965 / F51348” on the bolster. The scabbard is marked “USM8A1 / P W H”.
Barrel Length: 18”. 23.5” inches with flash hider/grenade launcher attachment.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade sight within two protective ears dovetailed to the gas block. Attached to the gas block is a flip up grenade launcher ladder sight. The rear sight is an adjustable peep sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a modified M1 Garand pattern wood stock. The LOP measures 12.75 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The BM59 is cut to receive detachable box magazines. Features a foldout Bipod, grenade launcher sights, winter trigger for gloved use as well as firing grenades without breaking fingers, safety in front of trigger, ambi mag release in front of trigger guard, bayonet lug, and bolt catch on the left side of the receiver. There are no chips or cracks in the stock. There are cutouts in the stock for bipod feet to rest in. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition as factory refurbished original parts. There are some light scratches on the buttpad.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1 BM59 Steel Factory Box Magazines, 20rd, in Excellent Condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is clean. There is no notable erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear on this rifle. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition for a preban rifle. This rifle has a headspace certificate from Springfield Armory serviced in 2002. There is some minor operation wear on the bolt.
The bayonet is in Excellent condition with some minor sheathing wear. There are no signs of corrosion and the blade retains a sharp factory edge and point with no signs of use or abuse. Please see photos for a better understanding of this rifle and bayonet’s condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. 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: This rifle comes with total of 1 magazine, Takedown and cleaning tools, Beretta BM 59 Owners Manual along with a rubber chamber flag and an original Bayonet dated 1965.
Our Assessment:The BM59 is a historic battle rifle developed in Italy in the 1950’s that is based on the M1 Garand platform. The rifle is chambered in 7.62×51 NATO and features a 20-round detachable box magazine, as well as a folding bipod and a combined muzzle brake/flash suppressor/rifle grenade launcher. The original military configuration was select fire, but a few semi-automatic versions were imported to Springfield Armory with Beretta receivers and parts. The BM59 is an improvement on the M1 Garand, with several upgrades including a straightened operating rod, a shorter barrel, and a more pleasant shooting experience due to the long action receiver. The magazine was also improved to accept detachable box magazines, which the M14 took nearly a decade to accomplish.
The rifle has an iconic status due to its use by the Italian military and its appearances in many movies and TV shows. This original Beretta BM59 is truly a rare and historic piece that deserves a place in the best of collections or arsenals.
Overall, this BM59 is a unique and interesting rifle with a historic legacy. It is a great option for those looking for something different and enjoyable to shoot. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!