Solothurn Model S-18/1000 20mm Autocannon

Originally developed by Rheinmetall, the constraints of the Versailles Treaty forced them to go to Solothurn in Switzerland for production, with this example made in 1940. A heavy, machined steel beast of a weapon, contemporary reports list the S-18 as capable of 20mm penetration at 100 yards. While the armor trends of World War II eventually made it obsolete in the anti-tank role, they continued in use as aircraft armament, anti-aircraft guns, and in what is now known as the "anti-materiel" role, smashing up enemy vehicles and equipment. In addition to use by Germany, the S-18/1000 was also adopted by the Italians, seeing use on the African Front as armament for the L3/35 'tankette', as well as being used by the Italian Social Republic into the last days of the War in Europe. Fitted with a folding blade front and adjustable tangent rear sight, with a 5-port muzzle break on the threaded muzzle, the model marking and manufacture date on the chamber area, and an integral scope. A large crank with a rubberized handle serves as the cocking mechanism, with a hardwood grip, folding front bipod, folding adjustable rear monopod, and a thick, rubberized recoil pad. Included with the lot are a set of two steel framed pack rigs, thirty rounds of ammunition (mixed headstamps, primarily blue-painted projectiles), cleaning tools, spare parts, a hardwood transport chest, and seven extra magazines.

Condition: Excellent, with 90% of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown and plum patina, edge wear, and minor handling marks. Some mixed numbered internal parts. The grips are excellent, and the recoil pad shows scuffing and tearing. Optics are a bit hazy, but in fine order otherwise. Mechanically needs adjustment, ejector and its retaining piece included separately. The accessories are good, with some of the ammunition showing wear and corrosion. NOTE: This Destructive Device is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479, National Firearms Act.