FN MODEL 1949
FN MODEL 1949 (a.k.a. the SAFN "Semi Automatic Fabrique Nationale" Developed in the post war days of Belgium the design tried to address some of the problems which had plagued some rifles during the war. The weapon was to be fed by both stripper clips through the top of the receiver as well as detachable box magazines, this was believed to give the user the capability to "top off" his weapon in between firing. The 1949 rifle, unlike many of it's predecessors had a shorter barrel, it was felt that many rifles before this were too long and bulky-it was felt even with a shorter barrel the weapon would be capable of engaging at ranges of 600 meters. The addition pistol style stock was helpful as the weapon was manufactured to fire in full-automatic mode, this helped to keep the weapon on target. (Experienced users learned to fire off short bursts rather than a full burst.) Many of these weapons were sold to different countries: BELGIUM / BELGIUM CONGO (formerly Zaire, currently Republic of Congo) / LUXEMBOURG / DUCH EAST INDIES (currently Indonesia) / COLUMBIA / BRAZIL (120'000, chambered for the .30-06 Springfield).EGYPT (37'OOO chambered for the .7'92mm Mauser) VENEZUELA (8000 chambered for the .7mm Mauser)
Picture and information courtesy of: PIERANGELO TENDAS
