Make: Fabrique Nationale (FN). Egyptian Contract

Model: 1949 (FN 49)

Serial Number: 13870

Year of Manufacture: 1948 to 1952

Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)

Action Type: Semi Auto, Short Stroke, Tilting Lock, Internal Magazine

Barrel Length: Approximately 23 Inches. 25.5" with compensator

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post dovetailed between two protective ears. The rear sight is an aperture tangent sight marked to 10.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, upper handguard, metal forend cap, stock band, 2 sling loops, and a synthetic buttplate. There is no notable wear outside of a small scratch near the toe and a couple tiny compressions. The stock is sanded and refinished. There is some intermittent varnish on the handguard. The LOP measures 12 7/8 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Parkerized, Black Enamel Paint

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no notable erosion, only light fouling. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. Most of the black enamel has worn off to reveal the parkerization underneath. The parkerized finish is generally strong throughout with some minor edge wear and thinning. There are a few scattered handling marks. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are tooled but retain strong serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This Egyptian contract FN Model 1949 rifle represents Fabrique Nationale’s early postwar effort to supply a modern semi automatic infantry rifle to emerging military customers in the Middle East. Produced between 1948 and 1952 and chambered in 8mm Mauser, the FN-49 combined traditional full power rifle ballistics with a short stroke, tilting bolt operating system that emphasized reliability and controllability. The Egyptian rifles are among the most recognizable FN-49 variants, noted for their long barrel profile, distinctive muzzle compensator, and tangent aperture sight graduated to extended ranges, reflecting contemporary military doctrine.

Condition remains solid overall, with strong surviving parkerized finish visible beneath the worn black enamel and clear, legible markings throughout. The hardwood stock has been refinished and presents well, showing only minor cosmetic marks, while the action functions correctly with light operational wear. Overall, this rifle presents as an authentic example of FN’s postwar military production, retaining its original configuration and character while clearly illustrating the service life typical of Egyptian contract FN-49 rifles.