World War II German "CRA" Code MG42, Class III/NFA C&R Fully Transferable Machine Gun, with Field Mount and Numerous Accessories
This German MG42 machine gun, a hallmark infantry weapon of World War II, perfectly exemplifies why it earned the nickname “Hitler’s Buzzsaw.” Celebrated for its remarkable blend of portability and devastating firepower, the MG42’s blistering cyclic rate of approximately 1,200 rounds per minute produced an unmistakable, continuous roar that unnerved American and Commonwealth troops accustomed to slower-firing firearms. This rapid-fire capability helped redefine machine gun combat and gave the MG42 a legendary reputation.
Post-war, the MG42 remained influential—recalibrated for NATO standard cartridges and adopted by West German forces. Its design, along with that of the FG42, directly inspired the iconic American M60 machine gun.
This example features folding blade front and ladder rear sights mounted on its full-length barrel shroud, a screw-on flash hider, and a quick-release barrel system for rapid barrel changes. The receiver is a blend of machined and stamped parts, marked on the left side with “NC/MG42/7962 m/cra.” The weapon is equipped with ribbed pistol grips, a two-position safety, and a synthetic buttstock. The finish is a mix of blued and phosphate coatings consistent with authentic wartime and postwar use.
Included in this lot are extensive accessories and spare parts enhancing functionality and authenticity: bolt components, a spare trigger group, four vintage metal ammo cans, two belt loading tools, three ammunition carrier drums, eleven additional barrels (including both 7.62mm marked and welded/plugged variants), four barrel carriers, and an HK-marked post-WWII field mount fitted with an illuminator unit and periscope sight—valuable for both historic preservation and practical display.
Very good overall. The barrel shroud and receiver are a gray patina, with patches of spotting and mild wear overall, and the shroud showing heat discoloration at the muzzle, with a strong blue finish on the flash hider and top cover. The furniture is fine, with minor scratches. Mechanically excellent. Accessories are good to very good overall. The illuminator is untested, and the scope has fair optics but shows signs of heavy oxidization. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a “Curios or Relic” as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479.
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