One of the signature weapons of World War II, the German MG42 machine gun was one of the best infantry weapons of the war, blending portability and intense firepower, while also being more streamlined in production than earlier weapons. Dubbed "Hitler's Buzzsaw" and "the Linoleum Ripper", the MG42's high cyclic rate of up to 1,200 rounds per minute gave it a distinct and intimidating sound, very alien to American and Commonwealth troopers trained with and around slower-firing weapons; at that speed, individual gunshots are replaced with a steady, disturbing roar. The 42's life went on after the war, continuing in service with the West German armed forces rechambered for NATO-standard calibers, and being used alongside the FG42 as inspiration for the development of the American M60. Folding blade front and ladder rear sights are installed on the full length barrel shroud, along with a screw-on flash hider, and a quick-release barrel mechanism. A machined trunnion connects the stamped shroud to the stamped receiver, which is faintly marked on the left side, with a set of ribbed pistol grips, two-position push-button safety switch, and a synthetic buttstock. Multiple parts are unmarked, including the barrel. Included with the lot is a post-WWII field mount with Hensoldt optical sight and illuminator unit, ammo cans (mixed WWII German, WWII Finnish Maxim, and post-WWII, the latter of which are compatible with the feed mechanism currently installed on the item), non-disintegrating belts, disintegrating belt links, and a Browning Model 1918 belt loading tool.

Very fine, with 95% of the refinished matte gray finish, showing mild cycling and edge wear overall. There is evidence of rewelding on the right side of the heat shield near the muzzle and between the vents on the left side, and some replaced components, likely from a 7.62mm conversion (not verified, paperwork for weapon lists caliber as 7.92). Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479.