West German Bundeswehr MG3 MG42 MG53 Lafette Tripod with Optics & Case
AVAILABLE / EMAIL TO BUY
History & Context:
Adopted by the West German Bundeswehr during the Cold War, the MG3 Lafette tripod represents a refined evolution of the WWII German MG42 ground mount. Engineered for sustained-fire roles, this heavy-duty recoil-buffered ground mount allows operators to deliver long-range suppressive fire using specialized optical sights. Complete military surplus rigs featuring the tripod, optical sight (*Fernrohr, Ziel-, für MG*), and hard transport container are premier functional accessories for belt-fed machine gun collectors.
Specifications:
• Maker: West German Bundeswehr Contractor / Hensoldt Wetzlar
• Model / Type: Lafette MG3 / MG42 Ground Mount with Optics Set
• Size / Dimensions: Standard full-size folding tripod assembly
• Era: Cold War (ca. 1960s–1980s)
• Country: West Germany
• Markings: Hard container embossed "1240-12-145-7097 FERNROHR, ZIEL-, für MG", internal optic data placard, rack numbers "4-312", "18646", and scope desiccant glass mark "40%"
• Included Items: Lafette tripod mount, ZF 4x24 optical scope, hard transit container, and original canvas carrying strap
• Grade: Collector / Live-Fire / Display Piece
Condition & Wear:
This original military surplus assembly remains in complete condition with minor surface scuffs, rack numbering, and light finish wear appropriate for military issue and storage. The tripod retains its recoil buffer mechanism, rear pad assembly, and functional adjustment dials. The optical sight is housed inside its dedicated hard container with intact interior data chart. Please inspect all high-resolution photos to evaluate exact visual condition; additional photos are available upon request.
Full Auto LLC buys firearms, machine guns, NFA items, military collectibles, individual pieces, and entire collections. Free evaluations are available. Visit www.MyFullAuto.com.