Valuation Guides Machine Guns Valmet M78
Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: February 17, 2026
The Valmet M78 is a Finnish light machine gun based on the Kalashnikov design, known for its heavy barrel, bipod, and exceptional accuracy.
Curious about how much your Valmet M78 heavy 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.
The Valmet M78 was developed in Finland as a squad automatic weapon based on the Kalashnikov system. Its beefy build, heavy barrel, and quality Finnish craftsmanship set it apart from other AK-pattern guns. It came in both 5.56×45mm and 7.62×39mm variants and was exported in small numbers. Due to its limited importation and robust design, it commands strong value in the U.S. market.
Origin
Finland
Manufacturer
Valmet
Caliber
7.62×39mm or 5.56×45mm NATO
Rate of Fire
650–750 rounds per minute
Notable Uses
Finnish military testing, U.S. collector market
Transferable Valmet M78 heavy 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 $18,000 to $28,000, depending on configuration and provenance.
Registered Receiver (7.62×39mm)
Estimated Value: $18,000 – $28,000
Registered Receiver (5.56×45mm)
Estimated Value: $18,000 – $28,000
Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist
Originality:
Transferable Valmet M78s with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.
Condition:
Clean, well-maintained Valmet M78 machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.
Historical Markings / Provenance:
If there are markings or provenance that link your Valmet M78 to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.
Restoration:
Whether your Valmet M78 has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.
Transfer Status:
Transferrable Valmet M78s will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.
Receiver Type & Build Origin:
Valmet M78s built on original receivers are worth more than rewelds or REWATS.
Create an account or log-in to get an offer with professional support every step of the way.
Our mission is to make the process of selling your firearm as easy and convenient as possible.
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.
Step 1
Tell us what you have
Fill out a short form and upload a few photos. This helps us identify what you have.
Step 2
We verify your make & model
We review your information and images to assess the condition and value of your firearm.
Step 3
We make an offer
We’ll provide an offer on your firearm and, if accepted, provide a shipping label.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our customer support team.