Description
Japanese Model Gun Corporation MGC68 MP40 Non-Firing Model Gun
This is a Japanese Model Gun Corporation MGC68 MP40 display model gun, patterned after the German WWII MP40 submachine gun. The receiver collar is marked MP40 / mgc68, with serial number 8068. These early Japanese MGC model guns are well known among collectors for their unusually realistic construction, weight, action layout, and handling.
This is a non-firing model gun / display replica, not an original wartime MP40 and not a live firearm.
MGC68 MP40 Model Gun
The MGC68 was made by Japan’s Model Gun Corporation during the late 1960s to early 1970s model-gun era. These were produced as high-grade plug-fire cap model guns, intended to copy the look and manual operation of the original MP40 while remaining a non-firearm. When used with the proper reusable model cartridges and caps, the system was designed to cycle and eject replica cases for theatrical, display, and collector use.
The early MGC68 MP40 developed a lasting reputation as one of the most convincing postwar MP40 replicas. Collector tradition often notes that these early all-metal Japanese examples were eventually restricted from further import because they were considered too realistic. That reputation is a major part of their appeal today, especially compared with later plastic or simplified replica arms.
Construction / Configuration / Pattern
This example follows the MP40 profile closely. The lower reciever, stock assembly, trunion and mag well appear to be surplus German construction with Japanese made dummy barrel and upper receiver. A tubular receiver, folding metal shoulder stock, pistol grip, side magazine housing, hooded front sight, rear sight assembly, and barrel nut / muzzle assembly. The lower body and grip panels are finished in the brown and black Bakelite-style appearance associated with the original MP40 pattern.
The folding stock is present and extended and does fold. The open receiver slot, cocking-handle area, rear sight, trigger group, magazine housing, and muzzle assembly give the piece a strong display profile. The magazine well is empty, and no magazine is included.
Historical Context / Pattern Development
The original German MP40 was one of the most recognizable submachine guns of the Second World War. Developed from the MP38 pattern, it used a stamped and machined metal construction, folding stock, pistol grip layout, and 32-round detachable magazine. Its compact form made it especially useful for vehicle crews, paratroopers, squad leaders, and other troops needing a shorter automatic weapon.
The MGC68 was not a military arm, but it was made during a period when Japanese model-gun makers were producing highly detailed mechanical replicas for collectors and film use. The MGC MP40 is one of the best known of these. Its weight, metal construction, folding stock, and realistic external controls made it a convincing stand-in for an original MP40 without using a live firearm.
Condition
This MGC68 is in good display condition with visible age, finish wear, and handling marks throughout. The metal surfaces show an aged black and plum-brown tone with scattered oxidation, edge wear, small scratches, and thinning finish. The receiver collar markings remain clear, including MP40 / mgc68 and serial number 8068.
The brown Bakelite-style body components show scuffs, scratches, and finish wear consistent with age and handling. The black pistol grip panels remain intact. The folding stock is present with surface wear and patina on the arms and buttplate. The sights, muzzle assembly, trigger guard, grip, magazine housing, and external controls remain in place.
Overall, this is a desirable early Japanese MGC68 MP40 display model, with strong collector appeal as one of the highly realistic Japanese model guns that later became difficult to import.
