Venezuelan FN49 Matching FN-49 7mm Mauser Semi Automatic Rifle 1949-61 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,255.00
LSB#: WY250120KN012
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Venezuelan Contract Rifle
Model: 1949 (FN49)
Serial Number: 6699
Year of Manufacture: 1949 – 1961
Caliber: 7x57mm (7mm Mauser)
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Markings: There is no visible import mark. The top of the receiver is marked with the Venezuelan crest and Belgian proofs. The right side of the receiver, right side of the top cover, and right side of the bolt are each marked with the serial number. The right of the receiver is also marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE_HERSTAL BELGIQUE”. The right rear of the top cover is marked with Belgian proofs. The top of the gas tube cap is marked “A”. The belly of the stock is marked with a “circled letter”. The right side of the stock is marked with a circular cartouche that contains “FUERZAS ARMADAS / VENEZUELA”. There are a few other small marks on the rifle.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 inches. 24 3/4 inches to the end of the muzzle break.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked form “1-10”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece hard wood stock has a pistol grip, finger grooves, metal nosecaps, barrel band, 2 sling loops, and a corrugated metal buttplate. The buttplate shows scratches, thinning and oxidation. The wood shows several scratches & compression marks. There are a couple small gashes. The LOP measures 13 3/8 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good Plus overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The metal shows very small scrapes & scratches that have removed small portions of the paint finish. The receiver and bolt show light operational wear. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine to Excellent condition.
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 Venezuelan FN49 rifle, chambered in 7mm Mauser, represents one of the most sought-after and historically interesting variants of the Fabrique Nationale Model 1949 semi-automatic rifle series. Designed by the acclaimed Belgian engineer Dieudonné Saive—who also created the FN FAL—the FN49 was Belgium’s first widely adopted post-World War II semi-automatic military rifle. In 1948, Venezuela placed an order with FN Herstal for approximately 8,000 rifles, delivered between 1949 and the early 1950s, marking one of the earliest significant international contracts for this groundbreaking firearm. Venezuela’s selection of the venerable 7x57mm cartridge—a legacy from its earlier Mauser bolt-action rifles—was notable, as it provided compatibility and logistical simplicity for the nation’s armed forces during a transitional period.
The Venezuelan FN49 rifles quickly earned a reputation for accuracy, reliability, and robust construction, seeing service primarily within the Venezuelan military for several decades, including during periods of domestic unrest and regional tensions. Each rifle prominently featured Venezuela’s national crest stamped boldly onto the receiver, setting them apart visually and enhancing their appeal today among collectors. Due to the relatively limited number produced, combined with their outstanding build quality and unique chambering, Venezuelan FN49 rifles have become highly desirable collector pieces, valued for their historical significance as a pivotal transition between bolt-action rifles and the widespread adoption of modern battle rifles like the FN FAL. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
