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Rare Experimental Smith & Wesson Light Rifle with Rare Magazine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,700.00 USD Estimated At:3,500.00 - 5,500.00 USD
Rare Experimental Smith & Wesson Light Rifle with Rare Magazine
This is an improved version to the Mark I light weight rifle that was originally produced for the British government during WWII and which became a limited candidate against the M1 carbine during test trials. Due to the general instability of this design and a flaw in the actual trigger mechanism that allowed the weapon to accidentally discharge when dropped, this model failed in the test trials against the M1 Carbine. Very few were ever actually produced to begin with and most were destroyed, with only about 80 remaining in the U.S., they are considered a very rare S&W light rifle. The action operates from an open bolt, with the cocking knob on the right side and they are fitted with a unique wide magazine housing which serves a dual purpose; the front section holds the actual magazine and the rear portion is actually the ejection port. So that when the rifle is fired, the spent cartridges are ejected directly down to the ground instead of into the air. It is fitted with a fixed blade front sight with a fixed blade rear sight that is adjustable for elevation only. The basic differences between the original Mark I and this model the Mark II, is that the safety lever, cam and set screw above the trigger were removed on the Mark II and replaced with a large serrated rotating safety ring that is located around the center section of the receiver directly behind the rear sight. A new patent number was also added on the right rear side of the receiver housing . The basic other features and markings remain the same. The rifle is fitted with a black plastic or composite pistol grip stock with a serrated metal butt plate. Due to the original design issues with these rifle and the potential for an accidental discharge, it is recommended that these rifles "NOT BE LOADED OR FIRED IN ANY MANNER."
BBL: 10 inch round
Stock: black composition
Gauge: 9 mm
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 1396


Excellent overall with 99% of the original S&W blued finish with minimal wear. The butt stock in also in excellent condition with minimal handling marks. An exceptional example of a very rare S&W experimental rifle complimented by having the original magazine which is virtually unheard of to have included.