Rifle

Question
I am looking at a Fabrique Natonial d"armes De Guerre Herstal Belgique model 49 8mm rifle with a serial number in the 15000 range, can you tell me the year made or how to find out.

Answer
Hello Robert.
 The FN Model 49 was manufactured a little late for use in WWII. The 1st order went out to Venezuela, in August 1948, in 7x57mm Mauser. The 2nd contract went to Egypt in June of 1949. These were chambered in 8x57(8mm)Mauser, with a total of 37,602 rifles. After the 8mm, there were the .30-06 and several other calibers. There was also another production in 1960. So your rifle would be in the 1949 time range. If you want to read more about your rifle, just check the internet for more information.
  Thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage