Venezuelan FN49 Matching FN-49 7mm Mauser Semi Automatic Rifle 1949-61 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB#: WY240925JT010
Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Venezuelan Contract Rifle
Model: 1949 (FN49)
Serial Number: 7272
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 LOP measures 13 1/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
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 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. This FN-49 exemplifies the peak of Fabrique Nationale’s craftsmanship, retaining an excellent condition both mechanically and aesthetically. The finish remains deep and lustrous, with only the faintest handling marks, indicative of careful preservation rather than hard service. The Venezuelan crest is crisp and well-defined. The stock’s rich hardwood grain is beautifully preserved, showing only minor handling wear with a smooth well-maintained surface. Internally, the action is immaculate, with clean, precise machining and a pristine bore, reflecting the rifle’s limited use. This is a truly outstanding example of the FN-49. The screw heads show light use with sharp slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about 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: This rifle comes with a correct leather sling in Excellent condition. The leather is pliable. There are no rips or tears. There are only faint handling and storage marks.
Our Assessment: This Venezuelan-contract FN-49 chambered in 7mm Mauser, produced between 1949 and 1961, stands out as one of Fabrique Nationale’s finest semi-automatic battle rifles, admired for both its exceptional build quality and historical significance. This particular example is especially remarkable, boasting entirely matching numbers and an original finish that remains nearly immaculate—truly one of the cleanest and most pristine specimens one could hope to encounter. The FN-49’s robust construction, combined with its crisp action and accuracy, contributed significantly to its reputation as a reliable service rifle, widely praised for durability and precision under challenging field conditions.
Given its outstanding original condition, this FN-49 rifle is undoubtedly worthy of inclusion in even the most discerning and advanced military collections. Venezuelan contract rifles, identifiable by their elegant crest and fine craftsmanship, have become increasingly desirable among collectors due to their scarcity, historical value, and superior fit and finish. This exceptionally well-preserved FN-49 not only serves as a superb example of post-war firearms design but also represents a significant piece of mid-20th-century military history, appealing strongly to serious collectors, historians, and enthusiasts who appreciate extraordinary quality and authenticity. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
