Deactivated WW2 German MP40 Submachine Gun

This is a Second World War German MP40 submachine gun. This example is marked "BNZ 43" = Steyr 1943 and has been armourer reworked. Note the original s/n 3219 has been struck out and a new serial number 8742 applied, this is normally a good indication that it saw active service and required repair whilst in service. Unlike most from this period it does not have a slot in the magazine well and has a numbered barrel rest. It is also fitted with a late war two sided barrel. Surprisingly 1943 production figures for the MP40 by all manufacturers was just under 235,000, the majority of which were allocated to the German Army.

 

The MP40 was an innovative design in both terms of manufacture and as a weapon of war. It was made using stamped steel and Bakelite parts and had a very clever folding stock arrangement making it an ideal compact weapon for the German Fallshrimjager (paratroops). The MP40 was issued widely throughout the German army with infantry divisions and SS units receiving them first in 1940, and was only in production from 1940 to 1945. It was also a favourite with Allied troops and was a prized trophy, often it would be used in preference to other available weapons if captured.

 

Deactivated to current specifictions with a moving bolt and trigger. This MP40 comes fitted with an original bolt plunger and magazine.