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Buying a deact MP40

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    Buying a deact MP40

    I appreciate this is a very open question and there are probably a multitude of answers etc.

    For a while, I've been toying with the idea of getting a nice UK-spec deact MP40. But what things I should be looking out for? i.e. common issues, forged components, dody serial numbers etc etc.

    Sorry, I know this is really open ended, but perhaps someone could at least get me started on the basics.

    Thanks.

    Chris

    #2
    Chris,

    I would look for the normal things - if possible, try to have one with original finish and matching parts. If and when its deactivated, then one that has deactivating done in a nice way.

    All major components (barrel, receiver, frame, grip, stock) in MP40 should have matching numbers (or last three digits). There can be several different WaA codes and makers marks though, as there was a large number of subcontractors.

    The heat shield under the barrel is easily broken, so you might also want to watch that.

    Comment


      #3
      Okay, thank you.

      Are MP40 components frequently faked?

      And what is a fair price for one at the moment, with matching numbers and a good deactivation?

      Thanks, Chris.

      Comment


        #4
        Be aware that in the UK there are 'old' and 'new' specification deacts, Old spec has barrel drilled and blocked, bolt modified so as not to feed or fire a round. New spec usualy has the bolt welded solid in the weapon. Also a BIG difference in price between the two specs..
        A search on 'UK deactivated guns' should bring up plenty of info..

        Mike

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          #5
          Chris,

          I don't think MP40 parts as such are forged commonly, as there are still plenty of originals in circulation.

          But as you most probably already know, practically all MP38/40 accessories (magazine pouches, slings and magazine loaders) are manufactured as repros and have been forged extensively over the past decades.

          Regarding price, it seems that a typical asking price for a nice matching UK old spec MP40 is around £2,000 - and most people would be really happy to find one for £1,500. But do a internet search with "new spec" and "old spec MP40" and see yourself.

          Comment


            #6
            Deact MP40

            Hi Chris,
            Much has been covered before - the search for all-matching numbers could take a while and £2,000 upwards is the going price for an "old-spec" which is field-strippable.
            Condition of finish is another major factor.
            If you just want one to hang on a mannequin there were some good condition new-spec guns at Beltring a couple of years ago from a Dutch dealer.
            The usual problem, where these have been used world-wide post war, is for the receiver tube and barrel of one gun to be fitted to the trigger mech and bakelite stock of another. It is not unknown for numbers to be polished out and appropriate new numbers stamped in.
            As always - buyer beware - originality commands a good price!
            Good luck!
            Grossfuss

            Comment


              #7
              Thanks guys for all your really useful info.

              It raises an interesting point, kind of an aside to this really: where did most of the Mp40s in circulation come from? Were they stored in Europe/UK post-war and then just gradually leaked into general circulation? Or were they used in other conflicts post-war and then imported and deactivated in the 80s/90s etc?

              Again, heartily acknowledge that's a very speculative question but it might be interesting to discuss for a moment.

              There is a UK-spec deactivated MP40 on the estand at the moment. Does anyone have any thoughts on it?

              Cheers.

              Comment


                #8
                Many have come directly from captured weapons stocks from various countries - some of these "reserve weapons" stores were only disposed off as late as 90s. Some are surplus from countries (Germany, Norway, Austria, Israel et al) where military, para-military or police organizations used them post-war. Smaller lots have been found all over the world, as captured weapons were commonly sold and given as military aid to various warring parties during the cold war.

                I think that here in Finland most of those German weapons that weren't left here during the war were purchased post-war from UK dealers - either as live or deacts.

                Comment


                  #9
                  Hey fellas.

                  Thanks one and all for your time. Much appreciated.

                  Chris

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