7.62mm NATO Query

[siegfreid]

I recently got this belt of ammo [I assume NATO 7.62 by Radway Green] with a small collection I purchased . The headstamps are all L42A1 RG 05 . My question is are they chrome plated just for decoration & what is the makers mark on the links ? Thanks !

 

[smle2009]

Hi Siegfried,
no help with the chrome question but the links are from the French AAT 52,also known as the MAS 52 machine gun,which used 7.62x51 and not 7.5mm MAS rounds...the headstamp on your cases are Radway Green and I'm sure L42A1 are 155gr match/sniper rounds

All the best
Tony

 

[siegfreid]

Tony . Thanks for that . Does it mean the MAS machine gun would have used RG rounds or are they just the wrong links for the rounds ? Mike

 

[ydnum303]

Hi Siegfreid,
As Tony says, the L42A1 round was 155-grain Match/Sniper ball. All the ones I have seen (and used) just have the usual brass case, so I think the plating is for decorative purposes only, done to the fired cases.

Regards,
Roger.

 

[siegfreid]

Roger . Thanks for that . Seems like a lot of expense to go to for decoration but I suppose some people like bullet belts ! Mike.

 

[smle2009]

Hi Mike,
Radway green did contract to the French in later days,not sure if the MAS 52 was still in service during this time(It was an awful gun that only just worked!),but the L designation would suggest your cases were for British service use.

Tony