Make: Johnson Automatics, manufactured by Cranston Arms Co.
Model: 1941
Serial Number: B6415 (Note that the Cranston factory did not serial match parts)
Year of Manufacture: 1941 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Semi-automatic, rotary magazine, short recoil
Notable Markings: Stamped on the right rear side of the receiver is an inverted triangle containing "CRANSTON ARMS CO." served as a Dutch national symbol (Cranston Arms in Rhode Island manufactured the rifles for the contract). The tiny five-pointed star punched just above the top point of the triangle signifies formal military acceptance by the Dutch government.
Barrel Length: 22"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a post protected by two wings pinned into place on the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable aperture dovetailed into the receiver.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is two piece wood with a smooth semi pistol grip, smooth forend, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate has some edge wear. The wood shows only some minor pressure dings and superficial blemishes. There are no chips or cracks. The furniture rates in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright and the rifling shows light wear. There is light erosion throughout the bore. The muzzle erosion measures 0.17. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its finish. The finish is strong, with patina visible on the heat shield and magazine. Normal expected operational wear is also visible. The screw heads range from unmarred to lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This Dutch Contract Johnson Automatics Model of 1941 was manufactured in 1941 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Johnson Automatics and designed by Melvin M. Johnson Jr., the Model of 1941 is one of the most innovative American military rifles of World War II. Originally manufactured under contract for the Dutch government for use in the Dutch East Indies, many of these rifles never reached their intended destination following the Japanese invasion. Although ultimately overshadowed by the U.S. M1 Garand, the Johnson rifle earned an excellent reputation for its accuracy, smooth recoil, and unique operating system, and it saw combat service with U.S. Marine Raiders. Dutch contract examples are among the more desirable Johnson rifles due to their historical significance and comparatively limited production.
Chambered in .30-06 Springfield with a 22 inch barrel, the Model of 1941 features a short-recoil operating system and a distinctive 10-round rotary magazine that can be reloaded with standard five-round stripper clips or individual cartridges without removing the magazine. These innovative features made the Johnson one of the most advanced military rifles of its day. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7.5 out of 10, showing moderate wear with good, visible rifling remaining. The action functions correctly.
The furniture rates in Fine condition with only light handling wear. This rifle retains approximately 80% of its finish, exhibiting honest wear while maintaining an attractive overall appearance. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good condition and represents a highly collectible Dutch Contract Johnson Model of 1941, one of the most mechanically innovative American military rifles of World War II. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
