Saudi Gold Plated Presentation G3: Gaudy or Elegant?

The Saudi Arabian government signed a contract with H&K to license domestic production of the G3 rifle at the Al Kharj factory complex in 1972. Production included standard rifles for general use, but also chrome- and gold-plated examples used as presentation pieces and diplomatic gifts. This is one of the gold examples, with deep decorative carving in the wood and gold plating on a number of parts, including the bolt carrier, charging handle, takedown pins, sling plate, and others. This one was made in 1988, and is serial number 00237.

Saudi G3 production never did reach fully independent status, and used many semi-finished parts imported from Germany. Production of the MP5 and G36 were added later (1987 and 2008 respectively), but a diplomatic scandal in 2013 led Germany to cut off parts support.

Many thanks to the IRCGN (Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale) for allowing me access to film this very rare rifle for you!