#33 • **Rare WWII J.P. Sauer & Sohn German Luftwaffe M30 Drilling

Part of Arms, Armor and The Early West (live auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

High bid $9,600.00

Status: Sold

12 gauge/9.3x74mmR caliber, 25.75" barrel, S/N 337606. Blued barrels with case hardened frame, triggerguard, and grip cap. Checkered walnut stock and forend with raised cheekpiece. Blade front sight with matted rim and mechanical rear sight. Frame marked "J.P. SAUER & SOHN, SUHL". Engraved throughout with scrolls. Luftwaffe eagle on right side of stock. Comes in original metal case with two boxes of ammunition, cleaning supplies, sling, users manual, and test target. Fitted with Pachmayr recoil pad, for which the stock has been cut to a length of pull of 13.75". Issued to aircrews as a survival weapon, the M30 Drilling was primarily issued during the North African campaign, where it was feared that local animals could threaten downed crews who had crash-landed. Mostly procured in 1941 and 1942, the M30 was extremely expensive, and only around 2,500 were actually acquired by the Luftwaffe. **Very good condition overall. Some minor scratches and wear to finish with attractive bright case coloring on frame. Stock has some handling marks and blemishes. Actions are tight and functional with bright bores.** $10,000-$15,000