Historical help....way OT

herr-pear · #1 15-07-04, 01:04

As a long-time lurker and very seldom poster I beg forgivness for this OT question. I have come to admire and respect the depth and diversity of knowledge here and hope to tap some of that in a years long quest of mine that has absolutely hit a brick wall.

The broad subject is the Farbique National Model 1949 rifle, also known as the FN-49, the SAFN, and the ABL rifle. Specifically, the lot purchased by The Dutch East Indies in 1949/1950. FN treats the information as confidential, as well they should.

My most pressing question is: How many were purchased? Followed by: How exactly were they marked? When were they put into service and when were they withdrawn? What became of them after being withdrawn? And anything in between.

Again, apologies for OT and if the forum owner deletes it, I will understand.
Thanks for any help.

Roger in Vegas

servicepub (RIP) · #2 15-07-04, 04:33

Go to http://p077.ezboard.com/bparallaxscu...firearmsforums
and you will see a forum specifically for Military semi-auto rifles. As with this forum, 'experts' in their field reside there.
Good luck.

nuyt · #3 15-07-04, 21:00

Herr-pear,

I dont know if you have found an answer yet, but I know of only two orders (3250 pieces in 1948 and 3500 pieces in 1949 respectively) to FN for "Mauser carbines" (no specifications).

These were not meant for the military or police but for planters and their plantation guards (ondernemingswachten). At least 3000 were delivered by 1949.

Hope this helps.

Greetings
Nuyt

herr-pear · #4 16-07-04, 06:49

Thank you both for your input. Everything helps...even negative information.
I think I've covered every "Gun" board on the 'net over the last few years but everybody says ' I dunno'. I am now convinced the only way to get a definitive(sp?) answer is to find someone who was there- then.

If that isn't bad enough, after this I need to ask the same questions about the lot that went to Brazil.

Thank You again, guys.

Roger in Vegas