1334 VERY RARE CZ Z37 SEMI AUTO RIFLE.

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 12,500.00 USD
Estimated at 25,000.00 - 35,000.00 USD
Cal. 8x57 (8mm Mauser). S# 11012. Bbl. 23". Blade front sight w/ protective ears. Tangent rear sight graduated to 2000 m. Very rare Czech pre-WW2 semi auto rifle that was the successor to the ZH-29 rifle designed by Emanuel Holek. The Z 37 group with estimated production at 25 or less with known serial numbers in the USA being 11006, 11011, 11012. This rifle was purchased circa 1967 by the consignor from the WWII Master Sergeant who liberated it and are the only two known owners since the capture of this rifle. ZH rifles were specifically redesigned for trials 1937-38 to develop a semi auto rifle to deliver anti aircraft fire for the infantry, hence the unusual sights. The Z37 was tested by the Czech army but ultimately rejected. Top right side of receiver marked w/ an "E3 (Czech Lion) 37" acceptance stamp. Top rear of receiver marked w/ serial , Czech lion, "AUTOMATICIA PUSKA" & "Z 37". Left side of receiver marked "CESKOSLOVENSKA ZBROJOVKA, AKCIOVA SPOLECNOST BRNO". Blued finish. Walnut stock & forend w/ bottom mounted & left side sling swivels. Aluminum cooling gas block. MAGS: 1-10 rd. & 1-20. rd. Total of 2. CONDITION: Very fine overall. Stock set shows some scattered light dings & handling wear. Cooling block is turning to gray w/ some light oxidation staining. Bolt assembly has correct, bright appearance w/ scattered freckling. Balance of metal retains 90% + original blue with some light edge wear. Upon close inspection, the top of the receiver (to the right of the stripper clip feed lips) exhibits a fine 3/16th hairline crack. Crack runs along the front facing edge of the receiver, just along the edge of the groove for the bolt carrier. Very good plus bright bore. An incredibly rare & high condition example of a scarce rifle seldom encountered within the United States. PROVENANCE: from Collection of Dr. Fred Novy, ASAC. (24-1829/MJC). CURIO. $25,000-35,000