Making a Classic G3

My FMP G3 rifle is hardly a traditional classic firearm. It’s a post war innovative design that that the Germans and Spanish collaborated on in the 1950s. The idea came from the World War II German STG-45 project, was taken to Spain and developed into the CETME rifle, brought back to Heckler & Koch in Germany and adopted as the G3 rifle, and sold to military forces around the world.

It’s still in widespread use today and is occasionally found on the battlefields of Afghanistan. Known for its robust construction using steel stampings, an innovative roller locking action, and a fluted chamber, the G3 is one of the most reliable rifles in the world. It’s been used in environments from the Arctic to the Jungle and the Desert with outstanding success. 14 different factories have produced G3 rifles over the last 50 years. The G3 rifle exhibits excellent reliability and durability. The unquestioned power, accuracy and general excellence of the 7.62 NATO cartridge are a perfect partner to the G3 rifle. The armies of about 70 different countries, in 15 armed conflicts, used the G3 rifle over 5 decades. It certainly rivals the better known FN FAL for use and distribution.

The popular images and civilian models of the G3 rifle have featured green or black synthetic stocks. A retractable metal stock is occasionally seen. However, when the rifle was introduced in the late 50s and early 60s, it featured a very nice wood stock and hand guard. Needless to say, the wooden look on a G3 rifle is something to behold.

Fortunately, several parts suppliers sell G3 wood stock sets for very reasonable prices, usually $20 to $50. The cost differences account for some of the parts which may not be included such as the recoil spring or buffer. As you can see the end result is a very “retro cool” look that will appeal to shooters or collectors attracted by a different look.