Smith and Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle Mark I C&R with Scabbard

SOLD FOR: $7,980.00

WOA#:  WY240722TA014

Make: Smith and Wesson

Model:  1940 Mk I

Serial Number: 986

Year of Manufacture: 1939-1940

Caliber: .9MM Parabellum

Action Type: Blowback , Fires from open Bolt

Markings: The Left side of the receiver is marked “ Smith and Wesson Springfield, Mass. U.S.A”.  The right side of the receiver is marked “ Patent 2213348 and 2216022”.  The bottom behind the trigger guard is marked “986 Mk 1”.  The left side of the frame just forward of the stock is marked with S&W Monogram.

Barrel Length: Fluted 9 ¾”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade.  The rear sight is marked is a notch sight with a micrometer adjustment for elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a molded black plastic semi pistol grip straight comb, and a serrated metal butt plate. The LOP measures 14.5”  from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: Rifle comes with 1  20rd box magazine.

Type of Finish: Brush polish Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is Sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling and storage wear.  There are light scratches throughout the rifle. The screw heads are Sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions properly. 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 1 magazine, leather sling, leather scabbard, and a plastic box

Our Assessment:   The Smith and Wesson Model of 1940 Light Rifle Mark I Chambered in 9 MM Luger, was produced for the British government during WWII.  Featuring a fluted 9 ¾” barrel, blue finish, 20-round magazine, black molded plastic stock, fixed front sight in a blade type, rear sight is a micrometer adjustable type, semi-auto fire only from open bolt, weighing 8 pounds 4 oz.  Most of them were destroyed by the British government with an estimated 130 remaining in the U.S.  Removed as a NFA weapon due to short barrel length but reclassified as a curio and relic by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

This model was done at the British government’s request in 1939 to Smith and Wesson for a 9MM assault rifle.  Smith and Wesson designed,  built and sent a group of production Mark I rifles to the British government for testing in 1940.  The Mark I failed the 5000 round test due to the rifle being made to shoot the 9mm American made ammunition not the “Hotter 9mm of Europe.  After this discovery , at the request of the British government, the British wanted S&W to do further engineering on this rifle.  Improvements were done and a group of Mark II rifles were sent for additional testing.  By this time the British had lost interest in the rifle.  In spite of its failure in testing, it was a very well made rifle with lots of steel and machining required in its manufacturing, unlike the British Sten gun.

A total of 1227 known Light Rifles were built, of which 200 were of the Mark II variation, 1010 were sold to the British government.  More frames were made than guns built, therefore serial numbers range from 1-2200. At the end of WWII all of the Light  Rifles in possession of the British government were supposedly cut in half and dumped in the English Channel, except for 5 that are in a British Military Museum.

  This 1940 Light Rifle is a prime example of the Mark I and would make a fantastic addition to any gun collection.  This 1940 Light Rifle is a great conversation piece with a great story.  Please note that the 1940 9mm Light Rifle should not be loaded with or fired with modern manufactured 9mm ammunition.  Please see our photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.

Smith and Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle Mark I C&R with Scabbard
Smith and Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle Mark I C&R with Scabbard