FN Herstal Model 1949 (FN-49) Egyptian Contract 8mm Mauser, 23.2 in Barrel, 10+1, Threaded Muzzle, 1950 Belgian-Made
This FN Herstal Model 1949 Egyptian Contract rifle is a Belgian-made, 1950-dated semi-automatic in 8mm Mauser with the features collectors look for. It carries the Egyptian royal crest on the receiver ring, FN Herstal factory markings, Belgian Liège proofs, and Arabic-numbered rear sight graduations with a matching Arabic-serialized receiver ring. An adjustable gas regulator, integral 10-round box magazine, and a 23.2 in threaded barrel with a protective cap round out a well-specified example. The rifle wears a replacement hardwood stock.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor, superficial scratches and small blemishes are present on exterior surfaces and wood.
What’s Included
- Threaded muzzle cap/thread protector (installed)
- Integral 10-round steel box magazine (installed)
Built by FN Herstal in Belgium, this Egyptian Contract FN-49 is marked on the receiver with 'FABRIQUE NATIONALE D'ARMES DE GUERRE—HERSTAL BELGIQUE' and carries Belgian Liège proof marks, including perron/tower and star-type stamps. The receiver ring bears the Egyptian royal crest, with matching serial characters in Arabic numerals, and the rear sight is graduated in Arabic numerals.
The rifle operates via a semi-automatic, gas-operated system with a short-stroke piston and tilting-bolt lockup. An adjustable gas regulator is positioned at the front of the gas cylinder, allowing the user to tune the system to ammunition and conditions. The manual safety lever is located at the front of the triggerguard.
Chambered in 8mm Mauser, it features a 23.2 in barrel with a threaded muzzle and protective cap, plus a bayonet lug. Feeding is through an integral 10-round steel box magazine for a 10+1 capacity.
The rifle is fitted with a replacement hardwood stock. Furniture details include a finger-groove fore-end, bottom sling swivels, and a two-piece wood upper handguard. The iron sights consist of a protected front post and a tangent rear sight with Arabic graduations. Length of pull measures 12.5 in.
Taken together, the Egyptian crest and Arabic-numbered sights, correct factory and proof markings, and contract-specific features make this a strong collectible example of the FN-49 Egyptian Contract, with configuration details that align with period production.