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World War II G41, Walther (ac 43) Code Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,600.00 USD Estimated At:4,000.00 - 9,500.00 USD
World War II G41, Walther (ac 43) Code Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle
The G41 rifles were made in limited production early on in the war and ultimately proved to be too time consuming to manufacture and produce (they were replaced by the G/43/K43 rifles). They employed a gas trap system mounted on the end of the rifle barrel that was originally designed off of the Bang system which employed a full length operating rod. This system proved too costly to produce and unreliable enough through the rough environment of the war. This semi-automatic function of this rifle and larger magazine capacity was highly desirable on the Eastern front. This specific rifle is fitted with a contemporary ZF 40 scope and mount. Page 315 of "The German Rifle 1914-1945" by Peter R. Senich states, "No original (as first manufactured) ZF40 telescopic sights or WWII mounts of this type are known to have survived the war.". The right side of the receiver is marked G-41with the serial number and stacked "ac /43", the wartime code for the Walther factory. It has all machined parts, laminated stock and black resin (plastic) handguard. The rear sight base has the machined in scope rails to use this type of straddle mount. The stock has a very faint double Eagle 359 proof on the left side below the sling slot and serial number on the underside. The scope is marked on top "fzg" (Feinmechanik e. G.m.b.H., Kassel) and "+" over "ZF41/1" and it is fitted with a set of sheet metal sun shades. It is complete with a cleaning rod. All visible numbers, including the magazine.
BBL: 22 inch round
Stock: laminated
Gauge: 8 mm
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 5402a
Condition: Very fine. The rifle retains 60% original war time blue finish with a smooth plum on the muzzle and front sight base and thinning with some smooth brown on the bolt cover. The rear portion of the barrel is a mix of original blue finish and smooth brown patina. The trigger guard has a smooth brown patina and the top of the receiver has strong original finish in protected areas with the balance a smooth gray patina. With the exception of a few gouges on the left side, the stock remains good with scattered nicks and dings. The scope is fine with some light pitting on the front sun shield and the optics are a bit hazy. Crisp and clear marking. The action is excellent.