What is mas-49?

The MAS-49 (Fusil Semi-automatique de 7,5 mm Modele 1949) is a semi-automatic rifle developed in France after World War II. It was designed by the Manufacture d'Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS) and adopted by the French military in 1949.

The MAS-49 is chambered for the 7.5x54mm French cartridge and features a detachable 10-round box magazine. It has a gas-operated action with a tilting bolt design, allowing for semi-automatic fire. The rifle also has a hooded front sight and a tangent rear sight with settings up to 1200 meters.

The MAS-49 was widely used by French military forces during the early years of the Cold War and saw action in various conflicts, including the First Indochina War and the Algerian War. It was eventually replaced by the MAS-49/56, which featured some minor improvements.

Overall, the MAS-49 is a reliable and accurate rifle that served the French military well during its time in service. Today, it is popular among collectors and enthusiasts of military firearms.