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How Much is My M1918A2 BAR Worth?

The M1918A2 BAR was an evolution of John Browning’s original automatic rifle, widely used by U.S. forces in WWII and Korea. Transferable examples are highly sought after, especially C&R models from WWII-era manufacturers.

Curious about how much your M1918A2 BAR light machine gun is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.

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About the M1918A2 BAR

In the interwar period, many countries around the world began R&D on new “squad automatic” or “squad support” weapons. These light machine guns (LMGs) were typically characterized as being magazine-fed, bipod mounted and easily maneuverable by one soldier. Instead of starting from scratch, the United States Ordnance Department decided to convert the previously-adopted Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) to an LMG. Simple revisions were made, which included the addition of a bipod, improved sights, new muzzle device, a carry handle and simplified furniture; thus the M1918A2 was born. These features added weight and complexity to the rifle, which generally proved to act as hindrances rather than improvements. Despite these changes, the M1918A2 BAR is one of the most desired and coveted machine guns in the NFA market.

Origin

United States

Manufacturer

New England Small Arms, IBM, Royal Typewriter, Winchester, Colt, ERMCO, Group Industries

Caliber

.30-06 Springfield

Rate of Fire

300–500 rounds/min (slow), 500–650 rounds/min (fast)

Mount Type

Bipod or handheld

Notable Uses

WWII, Korean War

M1918A2 BAR Machine Gun Values & Variants

Transferable M1918A2 BAR light machine guns are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $27,000 to $45,000, depending on configuration and provenance.

Common Variants & Value Ranges

  • M1918A2 BAR C&R

    Estimated Value: $35,000 – $45,000

  • M1918A2 BAR (Postwar Commercial)

    Estimated Value: $27,000 – $35,000

Factors That Influence M1918A2 BAR Values

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Originality:

Transferable M1918A2 BARs with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.

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Condition:

Clean, well-maintained M1918A2 BAR machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.

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Historical Markings / Provenance:

If there are markings or provenance that link your M1918A2 BAR to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.

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Restoration:

Whether your M1918A2 BAR has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.

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Transfer Status:

Transferrable M1918A2 BARs will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.

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Receiver Type & Build Origin:

M1918A2 BARs built on original receivers are valued higher than rewelds or REWATS.

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Selling a firearm can be time-consuming and legally complex, especially for machine guns. At webuyguns.com, we streamline the process by purchasing directly from you, saving you time and ensuring a legally compliant, hassle-free transaction. With decades of experience, we provide fair market evaluations and encourage you to compare our offers locally to see the value we bring.

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Our streamlined process makes selling your firearm easy. If you accept our offer, simply package your firearm using the prepaid shipping label we provide. We’ll keep you updated with email notifications at every stage. No hassle, no guesswork—just a smooth, straightforward experience on your terms.

Steps
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Fill out a short form and upload a few photos. This helps us identify what you have. We review your information and images to assess the condition and value of your firearm.
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We’ll provide an offer on your firearm via email within 72 hours, and if accepted, provide instructions to complete the process.
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We’ll provide a shipping label and keep you updated with email notifications tracking recieving the firearm, reviewing its condition and issuing payment.
Item Submitted
Colt Python: Minor scratches with approximately 200 rounds through it.
357 Mag Very Good
Offer Made
Ref # 0973457 .357 magnum Colt Python in very good condition.
$1,300
Offer Approved
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Item Shipped
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Tracking # 9610 1385 1287 3021
Item Received
Ref # 0973457 Colt Python
Customer Paid
ACH for $1,300 issued to customer account.

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Frequently asked questions

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Is this legal?
Yes. We are a federally licensed firearms dealer located in the state of Indiana. You, the seller, are covered under our license just as you would be if you walked into our store with the item. There are no laws preventing you from selling your firearm to us.
What is the value of a transferable M1918A2 BAR?
Transferable A2 models are worth between $27,000 and $45,000 depending on manufacturer and whether it’s a C&R or postwar build.
What’s the difference between C&R and postwar A2 BARs?
C&R examples were built for WWII service and carry higher value due to provenance. Postwar guns from ERMCO or Group Industries are more common on the lower end.
Are transferable M1918A2 BARs legal to sell?
Yes, if registered before May 19, 1986, M1918A2 BARs are legal to own and sell under federal law.
How long are offers good for?
Offers are valid for 14 days.
Can I sell multiple firearms?
Absolutely! Once firearm information has been submitted, you will have the ability to submit additional firearms for review and offers. These firearms will be viewable from your user panel, which you access from your initial offer email. If you have a large number of firearms or an estate, it's best to contact us directly (just to save you a lot of time).
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