Description
Custom Shortened U.S. Browning Automatic Rifle M1918A2-Pattern Non-Firing Display Gun with ROT-Marked Lower
This is a custom shortened U.S. Browning Automatic Rifle M1918A2-pattern non-firing display assembly, built using a mixture of BAR-pattern components and altered or fabricated display parts. The lower assembly is marked ROT 6535470 ARMASTEEL, indicating a Royal Typewriter-marked BAR component. The barrel component also shows U.S. ordnance-style marking.
This piece should be described as a post-service custom short BAR display gun, not as a documented Colt Monitor, Jungle BAR, paratrooper BAR, or official U.S. military variant. The compact front-end configuration gives it a shorter, “Monitor-like” appearance, but the layout does not match a known factory or military production pattern.
Historical Background
The Browning Automatic Rifle was adopted by the U.S. military near the end of World War I and remained in service through World War II, Korea, and beyond. The later M1918A2 configuration became the standard U.S. squad automatic rifle of World War II, recognizable by its heavy receiver, detachable box magazine, wooden stock and forearm, and automatic-fire role.
During and after military service, many BAR parts were rebuilt, refinished, demilled, reused, or assembled into display pieces. This example falls into that post-service display category. It uses identifiable BAR-pattern components, but the shortened front end and overall layout are best treated as a custom non-firing assembly rather than a cataloged service variation.
Configuration and Details
This display gun features a shortened BAR-pattern layout with full wood buttstock, shortened wood forearm, box magazine, BAR-style receiver profile, rear sight assembly, trigger group, and compact barrel/front-end assembly. The front end has been shortened substantially compared to a standard M1918A2 and includes a short barrel section, front sight assembly, and compact muzzle arrangement.
The lower is marked:
ROT 6535470 ARMASTEEL
The ROT marking is associated with Royal Typewriter production of BAR components. The presence of this marked lower adds collector interest, even though the complete assembly is not being represented as a factory-original military configuration.
The short barrel/front-end arrangement, optic or sight mounting setup, and overall compact profile appear to be custom display work. The result is an unusual BAR-pattern display piece with a much shorter profile than the standard U.S. service rifle.
Condition
This is a non-firing display assembly. It presents well overall with a dark metal finish, scattered handling marks, finish wear, and light surface patina. The receiver area, lower assembly, magazine well, trigger group, and rear sight retain a strong display appearance.
The wood buttstock shows an attractive reddish-brown finish with scattered dents, scratches, and handling wear. The shortened forearm shows heavier surface wear, darkening, finish loss, and visible checkering. The compact front-end assembly shows age, use, and wear consistent with a custom display build.
The piece has an unusual and visually striking shortened BAR profile. It is best suited for a collector looking for an interesting BAR-pattern display gun built around original-style components rather than a documented military variant.
