"FUSTAN" - The Competition Rimfire MAS-36 for North Africa

Published on November 24, 2021
Duration: 11:38

This entry details the rare MAS-36 FUSTAN, a .22 Rimfire competition variant of the French MAS-36 rifle. Developed for North African shooting societies, it features a precision-tuned action, adjustable sights, and a unique balance system. Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, provides an in-depth look at its development, mechanics, and competitive legacy.

Quick Summary

The MAS-36 FUSTAN is a rare .22 Rimfire competition rifle variant of the French MAS-36, developed for North African shooting societies. It features a dedicated rimfire action, a specialized two-prong firing pin, adjustable two-stage trigger, and a customizable balance system via a muzzle weight tube. Approximately 200 were made, achieving notable success in junior championships.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the FUSTAN MAS-36
  2. 00:21Comparison with Military Trainers
  3. 01:34Development History
  4. 02:20The FUSTAN Organization
  5. 03:34Receiver Markings
  6. 04:10Sights and Action
  7. 05:59Bolt and Firing Pin Mechanics
  8. 06:52Competition Features
  9. 08:56Barrel and Balance
  10. 10:21Production and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MAS-36 FUSTAN?

The MAS-36 FUSTAN is a rare, dedicated .22 Rimfire competition rifle variant of the French MAS-36 military rifle, developed in the early 1940s and revived for North African shooting societies in 1947.

What distinguishes the FUSTAN from standard MAS-36 trainers?

Unlike 'Tir Réduit' trainers that used adapters, the FUSTAN was purpose-built as a precision .22 Rimfire rifle, featuring specialized components like a two-prong firing pin and adjustable competition sights.

What were the production numbers and achievements of the MAS-36 FUSTAN?

Approximately 200 MAS-36 FUSTAN rifles were made. These rifles achieved significant success, winning the French national 50-meter junior championships for three consecutive years (1948-1950).

What are the key competition features of the MAS-36 FUSTAN?

The FUSTAN boasts an adjustable two-stage competition trigger, a heavy barrel profile, a customizable balance system using muzzle weight, and high-quality adjustable aperture sights for precision shooting.

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