1456 EXTREMELY SCARCE AND DESIRABLE FRENCH CR39 FOLDING

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 2,250.00 USD
Estimated at 4,500.00 - 7,000.00 USD
STOCK PARATROOP BOLT ACTION MILITARY RIFLE. Cal. 7.5x54. S# F28066. Non matching bolt. All other visible numbers match including the buttstock. Bbl. 17 3/4". Aperture rear sight graduated to 1200 meters. Blade front sight with protective hood. Receiver is marked on left side in block letters "MAS MLE1936 C.R.39" and S#. These rifles were designed prior to WWII to arm the newly established Parachute Infantry Corp. They were also used to arm Alpine troops to a limited degree. The rifles were designated "MAS 36 CR39". The CR stands for "Crosse Rapliable" meaning folding stock. Approximately 33,800 of these rifles were produced between 1939 and 1960. The buttstocks of these rifles are hinged to fold vertically with the hollow cast aluminum stock fitting closely under the forend. Coupled with a shortened barrel this made the over all length of the weapon a mere 24 5/8" (when folded) which was much handier during a parachute jump. The first rifles were issued without slings however the need was felt for slings and the rifles were given a unique spring loaded spool in the buttstock to keep the sling tensioned and out of the way. The barrel band was modified to position the sling attachment at the bottom which ensured correct functioning. The original slings were web but were changed to leather which was found to be more durable. This sling spool works well but is easily broken and is inoperable on many rifles. The cast aluminum stock assembly has casting marks and coarse machine marks and was likely left this way for a better grip. This example was produced in 1952 and utilizes the block lettering introduced at approximately S#28000. The buttstock however has the as cast aluminum finish and does not have the later green rubberized coating. This rifle has the post WWII stamped nosecap with protective hood. The stacking bar is present. The bayonets were shortened to approximately 11 1/4" blade, 15" overall. Hardwood forend and handguard. Handguard has transverse, doweled reinforcements. CONDITION: the aluminum stock is in very good original condition with light wear and scattered handling marks. The forend and handguard retain most of their original finish with light wear and scattered handling marks. The dowel reinforcements are both loose but present. The balance of the metal has a large amount of original finish with notable wear on the bolt. The folding stock has a very slight degree of looseness in the latched position but other wise functions very well. The 3/4" sling has moderate wear, scuffing and flexing but has good function. Bore is shiny with moderately worn lands with a hint of frosting in the grooves. (24-638/RW). CURIO. $4,500-7,000.