Valuation Guides Machine Guns Lewis 1917

Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: February 17, 2026

How Much is My Lewis 1917 Worth?

The Lewis 1917 is a U.S.-manufactured variant of the iconic WWI-era Lewis Gun, chambered in .30-06 and produced by Savage Arms. Known for its top-mounted pan magazine and finned cooling barrel, it remains highly collectible and functional.

Curious about how much your Lewis 1917 light machine gun is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.

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About the Lewis 1917

The Lewis 1917 is a U.S.-issued model of the famous Lewis Gun, produced by Savage Arms and chambered in .30-06 Springfield. While sharing the distinctive top-mounted drum magazine and air-cooling shroud of its British counterpart, the 1917 was built for American forces and often saw use in early aircraft and naval roles. These models are especially prized by collectors for their wartime heritage and relative mechanical reliability.

Origin

United States

Manufacturer

Savage Arms

Caliber

.30-06 Springfield

Rate of Fire

500–600 rounds per minute

Mount Type

Tripod or aircraft pintle

Notable Uses

U.S. infantry and aviation during WWI and interwar years

Lewis 1917 Machine Gun Values & Variants

Transferable Lewis 1917 Light Machine Guns are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $25,000 to $40,000, depending on configuration and provenance.

Common Variants & Value Ranges

  • Savage Arms .30-06 Models (C&R Eligible)

    Estimated Value: $25,000 – $40,000

Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist

Factors That Influence Lewis 1917 Values

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Originality:

Transferable Lewis 1917s with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.

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Condition:

Clean, well-maintained Lewis 1917 machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.

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Historical Markings / Provenance:

If there are markings or provenance that link your Lewis 1917 to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.

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Restoration:

Whether your Lewis 1917 has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.

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Transfer Status:

Transferrable Lewis 1917s will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.

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Receiver Type & Build Origin:

Lewis 1917s built on original receivers with C&R status are valued higher than rewelds or REWATS.

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Selling a firearm can be time-consuming and legally complex, especially for machine guns. At webuyguns.com, we streamline the process by purchasing directly from you, saving you time and ensuring a legally compliant, hassle-free transaction. With decades of experience, we provide fair market evaluations and encourage you to compare our offers locally to see the value we bring.

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Frequently asked questions

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How much is a transferable Lewis 1917 worth in 2026?
In the current 2026 market, transferable Lewis 1917 values generally range from $25,000 to $40,000 depending on variant, condition, originality and included accessories.
What factors most affect Lewis 1917 value?
Variant correctness, originality and condition drive pricing differences. Matching components and included period-correct accessories can increase value when documented and complete.
Do you buy Lewis 1917 machine guns?
Yes. WeBuyGuns.com buys transferable machine guns nationwide. Share photos of markings and configuration plus any paperwork details and we can provide a current value range and a purchase offer with clear next steps.
Can I sell a Lewis 1917 I inherited?
Yes, if it is legally transferable. Eligibility depends on registration history and paperwork, not just the model. We can help you understand what you have and outline next steps.
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