Description
Item Description
One of the most significant contracts of the FN Model 1949 was with Luxembourg, which purchased approximately 6,306 FN-49 rifles, all chambered in the highly desirable .30-06 Springfield. This contract encompassed standard infantry rifles, sniper variants, and training rifles, each bearing distinctive Luxembourg acceptance stamps (“AL”) that are highly sought after by collectors today. Only a limited portion of this already small production run was eventually released through surplus channels and imported into the United States, making surviving Luxembourg-marked examples notably scarce. As a result, the Luxembourg FN-49 is widely regarded as a premier collectible within the FN-49 family—valued for its low production numbers, excellent Belgian craftsmanship, documented military provenance, and the enduring appeal of its American service caliber.
Model: 1949 (FN-49) “Luxembourg Contract”
Serial: 3040
Caliber: .30-06
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 23"
Optics/Sights: Winged Protected Blade Front with Adjustable Tangent Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Walnut
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: Standard / The top of the receiver is stamped with the letters “AL”, which stands for “Armée Luxembourgeoise”, the Luxembourg Army.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Fabrique Nationale Model 1949 (commonly referred to as the FN-49 or the SAFN-49) plays a crucial role in the evolution of 20th-century military rifles. Recognized as one of the final and most advanced full-power semi-automatic service rifles, its development commenced in the early 1930s under the guidance of Belgian arms designer Dieudonné Saive. His goal was to create a gas-operated infantry rifle that could serve as a modern alternative to traditional bolt-action firearms. However, the onset of World War II and the subsequent German occupation of Belgium hindered production at Fabrique Nationale. After Belgium was liberated in 1944, Saive resumed work on the rifle, incorporating innovative features like a gas-operated, tilting-bolt locking mechanism, an adjustable gas regulator, and a fixed 10-round internal magazine compatible with stripper clips. The FN-49 boasted precisely machined steel components and exquisite walnut furniture, exemplifying a high level of craftsmanship. Formally launched in 1949, the FN-49 was designed to accommodate a range of full-power military cartridges, allowing FN to customize rifles for various national contracts before NATO unified caliber standards.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.




