Designed before World War Two this rifle was the work of D J Saive who moved to the UK when Germany invaded Belgium. In 1945 he offered his design for use by the British army who tuned it down. On returning to Belgium the famous FN Factory began producing this upmarket rifle in various calibres. An instant success sold to many countries the Model 49 lead to the introduction of the FN Self-loading Rifle adopted by the British, Nato and Commonwealth Armies. Thie example is part of a Belgian Army contract and carries their crest and ABL mark.
Marks and Stamps: (R sode of receiver) FABRIQUE NATIONALE D'ARMES BE GUERRE-HERSTAL BELGIQUE Serial no (twice) (Bolt carrier) serial no (Top of breech) Crown B ABL 1952| Accession Number: 208 | Period of Use: 1949 - 1960s |
| Type: Semi Automatic/automatic rifle | War Zones: |
| Country of Origin: Belgium | Type Date: 1949 |
| Manufacturer: Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre, Herstal | Serial Number: 64216 |
| Manufacture Date: 1952 | Calibre/Ammunition: 7.62mm |
| Weight: 4310g | Length Overall: 1116mm |
| Cyclic Rate: Semi-auto | Length Barrel: 590mm |
| Deactivation Certificate Number: DA 21932 |