World War I Maxim #9518

Maxim watercooled machine gun with accessories – World War I MG08/15 Maxim #9518 was manufactured by M.A.N. in Nurnburg in 1918. (M.A.N. AG is still in existence in Germany, however, it no longer manufactures firearms). This gun is in very good condition with 75% of its bluing remaining on its receiver and the barrel jacket.

As you may know, almost every part of the WWI German machine guns were serial numbered. Many parts were changed when the guns were repaired. Remarkably, most of the parts in this gun match. The barrel, fussee spring cover, butt and lock do not match. However, even the steam port cover matches on this gun! Comes with an original drum support bracket, although the lower tip of the bracket has been broken off. This does not prevent the bracket from working. Also comes with short original cloth belt.

Water coded Maxim machineguns can be fired either with water or dry. Just remember, when firing dry, shoot short bursts and let it cool down every so often. If you want to shoot one hundred round "bursts" or a full belt all at once, use packing string and put water in the jacket.

Reproduction bipod upper attachment brackets are available for $95.00 from several sources. These can be welded to a variety of tripods or mounts to give real versatility to your shooting stance. Also www.blackrivermilitaris.com sells spade grip assemblies for the 08|15 Maxim.

I recommend purchasing steel belts from IMA, which makes shooting this gun much simpler and very enjoyable. 8mm Mauser ammunition is only 5 cents per round. So a shooter concerned about getting the most out of his ammunition money will get more time per dollar behind the trigger on this gun than almost any other machine gun. Interestingly, (I do not understand the significance of this) an iron cross is stamped on the trunyon. C&R listed, fully transferable and fully functional.

Priced

at $10,000 plus shipping and insurance Sold in March 2005. Transfers to your dealer tax free.