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**RARE FRENCH CHATELLERAULT MODEL 1924/29 MACHINE GUN DEWAT (C & R).

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
**RARE FRENCH CHATELLERAULT MODEL 1924/29 MACHINE GUN DEWAT (C & R).
SN 23625. Cal 7.5 French. Bbl 23". The Fusil mitrailleur modËle 1924 M29, which was partly based on the BAR action, was the standard light machine gun of the French Army from 1925 until the 1950s. This 1924/29 DEWAT has been rendered unserviceable by welding the muzzle shut, however the chamber is open and clear and the bolt face is fine. The safety has been broken off at the thumb point. Both forward and rear detents move freely. Bolt moves freely in the action and closes properly. Bi-pod swivels and employs properly. Rear monopod is present and serviceable. Rear peep sight has been broken off. No magazine is present. This weapon cocks and bolt actuates properly when rear trigger is pulled. The parts appear matching throughout, operating rod, bbl and receiver. PROVENANCE: Recently deaccessioned from the Rochester Museum & Science Center Collection. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is very good to fine with 90% deep blue finish on exterior. Leather covering on charging handle knob is present. More or less complete loss of finish on right side where charging handle rubs against receiver, as is common. Unable to check condition of bore as muzzle is welded shut. Wooden fore end and buttstock have some gouges, bruises and handling marks but are completely strong and serviceable. There is grease in the channel of the receiver. This high quality and very functionally designed machine gun will be of interest to collectors. 4-47153 JWK10