1563

Exceptionally Rare "One Of A Kind" 1941 Johnson Semi-Automatic Prototype Rifle with Israel Defense F

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:7,500.00 - 12,000.00 USD
Exceptionally Rare  One Of A Kind  1941 Johnson Semi-Automatic Prototype Rifle with Israel Defense F
Starting life as a semi-automatic receiver forging, this rifle was subjected to a number of alterations by the factory, and at some later point was fitted with a set of Israeli components. The standard internal magazine has been replaced with a left side magazine well, for use with 25 round detachable magazines, while still retaining the right side loading gate, a detachable trigger group/ stock assembly which typically used a combination closed bolt semi-auto/ open bolt full auto firing style, similar to the MG-42, and the chamber has been altered to accommodate 303 British ammunition (NOTE: this rifle was built as a semi-automatic, and currently has a semi-automatic trigger group). Raised blade front and folding adjustable peep rear sight, with the standard receiver markings slightly altered to accommodate the well and rear sight, "1960" on the barrel ahead of the chamber and on the underside of the receiver, 2-position selector switch on the left side with Hebrew markings, and a partial Cranston Arms marking on the right rear side. Vented handguard, metal in the rear and composite in the front, with a folding bi-pod marked with an Israeli Defense Force "vine and sword" logo over "1960". The trigger/ stock group is fitted with a pair of smooth pistol grips, marked "1960" on top along with a set of "6-pointed star" proofs, and fitted with the early pattern 2-tube buttstock with a metal tube on the bottom, composite matching the forearm up top, and a flat metal buttplate. With a set of three scarce 25-round Johnson LMG box magazines.
BBL: 22 1/2 inch round
Stock: metal/composite
Gauge: 303 British
Finish: parkerized
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 3597
Condition: Excellent, showing 95% of the gray parkerized finish, with light handling marks. The forearm and stock components are very good, with some scuffs on the composite material and light dents and chips on the pistol grip panels. Mechanically needs adjustment. A nice example of a scarce prototype rifle.