Make: Parts are made by multiple German plants
Model: MG 34 (Maschinengewehr 34)
Serial Number: The receiver is not serialized as it is a solid piece of cast metal with no internals, the remaining serialized parts do not match
Year of Manufacture: 1934-1945 / ATF Classification: Non-Firearm
Caliber/Gauge: 7.92×57mm Mauser
Action Type: No action
Notable Markings: The barrel is dot-marked and has the Star of David. The buttstock is marked "WaAB66 / gxy / 1944". The bipod is marked "dfb 1943".
Barrel Length: 24.7"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into a folding base. The rear sight is an offset, folding ladder/leaf sight with a v-notch. Midway down the barrel is a place to mount various sighting tools, such as an anti-aircraft sight.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture consists of a wooden buttstock and pistol grip with two synthetic panels. The buttstock shows minor pressure dings and scratches. There is a large crack on the left side of the stock and is scuffed at the toe. The pistol grip has two panels with only a few minor handling marks. The LOP measures about 14.5" from the face of the trigger to the butt. The furniture rates in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Nonoriginal
Bore Condition: The bore is not viewable with the solid receiver and non-removable barrel.
Overall Condition: This display piece retains about 40% of its finish. The finish on many of the parts has worn away. There are scattered scratches and dings from it's long life. Overall, this piece rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: This does not function as the action is a solid piece of cast metal. The barrel cannot be removed due to part of the cast receiver breaking inside, blocking it from pivoting. Part of the block receiver is cracked just behind the pistol grip. This was assembled from multiple different firearms, so expect fitment issues.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One drum belt carrier, belt link, and 25 7.92x57mm cartridges.
Our Assessment: The Maschinengewehr 34 was one of Germany’s principal general-purpose machine guns of the Second World War. This example is not an assembled functioning MG 34, but rather a non-firing display piece constructed around a solid cast dummy receiver with assorted original-pattern components from multiple sources. The "dot" code found on the barrel is associated with Waffenwerke Brunn, while the "dfb 1943" marking on the bipod is consistent with Gustloff-Werke of Suhl. The Star of David marking on the barrel is particularly interesting, as German MG 34s and components subsequently used by Israel are known with Israeli Star of David acceptance/property markings. The various serial-numbered components do not match, which is unsurprising for a display assembly built from parts rather than a surviving matching wartime gun.
This display piece retains about 40% of its nonoriginal finish, with substantial finish loss, scattered scratches, dings, and general wear throughout. The wooden buttstock shows pressure marks, scratches, a substantial crack on the left side, and scuffing at the toe, while the pistol-grip panels show comparatively minor handling wear. The bore cannot be inspected because the solid dummy receiver and damaged internal portion prevent removal of the barrel. The piece has no functioning action, and part of the cast receiver is cracked behind the pistol grip. A broken portion of the dummy receiver also obstructs the barrel mechanism and prevents the barrel from pivoting for removal. It presents the distinctive profile of one of the most recognizable German small arms of WWII and includes additional display accessories. Overall, this piece rates in Good condition. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids!
