An excellent original Second World War German MG42 (Maschinengewehr 42) general-purpose machine gun chambered in 7.92×57mm Mauser, deactivated to the latest EU/UK specification. This iconic weapon, with its fearsome rate of fire of up to 1,200–1,500 rounds per minute, earned nicknames such as “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” and was the standard squad support weapon of the Wehrmacht from mid-1942 onwards. It was deployed across all fronts — from Stalingrad to Normandy — and remains one of the most recognisable German infantry weapons of the war.
This example retains its original wartime Bakelite buttstock and pistol grip, with correct ventilated receiver shroud and folding bipod. The rear tangent sight is graduated from 200 to 2000 metres, consistent with period manufacture.
The gun is marked with a series of wartime Waffenamt inspection stamps, including: -WaA519 – Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG, Steyr, Austria -WaA623 – Mauser Werke, Oberndorf -“cof” – Manufacture code for Carl Eickhorn, Solingen (components supply) -“bnz” – Manufacturer code for Steyr-Daimler-Puch AG -Serial number 805 B, clearly stamped on the right receiver side
-"SU2" = HZa Spandau depot acceptance (inspector no. 2)
These multiple codes indicate typical German wartime production practices, where parts were subcontracted and assembled under strict quality controls.
Historical Note: The MG42 was developed by Mauser to replace the earlier MG34, offering simplified, stamped-steel manufacture while retaining the versatility of a true general-purpose machine gun (usable on bipod, tripod, or vehicle mounts). Its high cyclic rate, combined with robust reliability, made it one of the most feared infantry weapons of WW2. It influenced postwar designs worldwide — notably the German MG3 (still in service today), and even inspired aspects of the American M60.
*Condition* This example is in very good condition for its age, showing light surface wear and patina consistent with wartime service and later storage. Markings remain clear and crisp across the receiver and components, with Waffenamts and maker codes all visible. The Bakelite buttstock and pistol grip are intact with only minor handling wear. Bipod is functional. Deactivation is to the latest EU/UK 2018 spec: the weapon is completely inert but retains movable parts where permitted (bolt under spring pressure, safety, trigger). Accompanied by its official Birmingham Proof House deactivation certificate (2022). Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMAIOOXBIOO_9864210626
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