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Very Fine Johnson Automatics Model 1941 Semi-Auto Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:2,800.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Very Fine Johnson Automatics Model 1941 Semi-Auto Rifle
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This rifle was consigned by relatives of John Babcock Howard. We have since confirmed that Mr. Howard was general manager and treasurer of Johnson Automatics, Inc. The Springfield Armory National Historic Site located a U.S. Senate Committee on Military Affairs testimony dated May 29, 1940 regarding potential adoption of the Johnson rifle. Mr. Howard introduced Melvin Johnson to the committee with the following opening statement: “My name is John Babcock Howard. As general manager and treasurer of Johnson Automatics, Inc., I desire to incorporate in the record Mr. Johnson's qualifications, he being our chief witness and representative of the company…” As Johnson was quite generous with his friends and colleagues, we believe this rifle was given as a gift from Johnson to John Babcock Howard.


serial #A5103, 30-06, 22'' 41-dated barrel with a bright excellent bore. This is a very attractive rifle retaining about 96% original Parkerized finish showing just a few sparsely scattered small spots of mild oxidation and subtle edge wear, the magazine body with a bit of discoloration that is relatively minor. The bolt body is mostly bright showing one area of gray-brown oxidation staining and all markings remain intact and crisp, the right rear receiver with Cranston Arms stamp and small inspection star. The smooth pistolgrip walnut buttstock and forend remain in near excellent condition retaining most of their original oil finish and showing just a few small shallow flakes missing along some edges and other light handling marks and the left side of the forend exhibiting a hint of subtle attractive grain figure. The barrel and bolt show mismatched numbers from the receiver as-is correct, the rifle is equipped with a meter rear sight and the action seems to function well mechanically also with functional bolt hold-open. Also included is a period leather case with fur lining by Red Head, that appears to be specifically for a Johnson rifle with production code ''269J'' on one of the straps. The case rates fair-good showing honest wear with scattered small tears, scuffs and overall flaking and the closure flap straps have detached but are present, their corresponding buckle straps on the body hanging on rather tenuously. In any event a scarce accessory to accompany a Johnson rifle and this rifle remains an excellent example for the advanced martial collector. (13C11794-1) {C&R} (4000/6000)