The Johnson Model of 1941 is a short recoil operated semi-automatic rifle chambered in .30-06 Springfield, designed by Melvin M. Johnson Jr. and manufactured by Cranston Arms Co. in Providence, Rhode Island. The action uses a short recoil system in which the barrel moves rearward approximately 0.75 inches upon firing, unlocking a multi lug rotating bolt. The barrel is 22 inches in length and is removable in the field by depressing the barrel release latch, rotating the barrel a partial turn to disengage the interrupted lugs from the receiver, and withdrawing it forward out of the receiver. This feature made the rifle relatively compact for transport and parachute operations, and also facilitated barrel replacement. The rifle feeds from a 10 round fixed rotary magazine, loaded from the side via standard five round stripper clips or by single rounds. The rotary magazine design allows the rifle to be topped off at any point during use without requiring the action to be locked open. The front sight is a blade with protective ears. The rear sight is a windage adjustable aperture mounted on the receiver, marked "M2" on the left side. The furniture consists of a separate buttstock and forend, both wood, with a checkered metal buttplate and perforated metal barrel shroud above the forend. The barrel also features a bayonet lug. Total production of the M1941 rifle is estimated at approximately 30,000 units. The rifle saw service with the United States Marine Corps, United States Marine Corps Paramarines, and the First Special Service Force, as well as limited foreign military use, notably by the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army.

This example is serial number B0635, placing it within the B production block. The face of the barrel collar is marked ".30-06 / 41" and the bolt is marked C1173. The top of the receiver bears patent information, "CAL. 30-'06 SEMI-AUTO." and "'JOHNSON AUTOMATICS' / MODEL OF 1941 / MADE IN PROVIDENCE, R.I., U.S.A." along with the serial number B0635. The right rear of the receiver is marked "CRANSTON / ARMS / CO" arranged in an inverted triangle. Above the inverted triangle on the right side of the receiver is a star, which is a Dutch proof marking, indicating this rifle was part of a Dutch contract. Accompanied by leather sling.

Note: Possibly a very thin, hairline crack between the magazine and trigger guard, though we have not disassembled the rifle to verify it goes through the stock. Stock is slightly loose.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cranston Arms Co., Providence, Rhode Island
• Model: Johnson Model of 1941, M1941
• Serial Number: B0635
• Bolt Number: C1173
• Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
• Action: Short recoil operated semi-automatic, rotating bolt
• Barrel: 22 inches
• Front Sight: Blade with protective ears
• Rear Sight: Windage adjustable aperture
• Magazine: 10 round fixed rotary
• Stock: Wood buttstock and forend, metal buttplate