Deactivated WWI French Berthier Mle 16 (Model of 1916)

This is rare, First World War French Army, Berthier MLe M16 rifle, manufactured by French arms company St. Etienne. This model was first adopted for the French Army in 1916 just as the Great War deepened. No sooner was it adopted, though, than a crash program was instituted to increase its magazine capacity to match the 5 rounds used by German Gew98 rifles. The vast majority of this model were modified however, this example was not and still retains the original 3 shot magazine configuration, very unusual. Included is an original and hard to find leather sling with correct fastenings. The Mle saw active service in both world wars being used by the French resistance in WWII. Deactivated with a working action it can be cocked, stripped and dry fired.

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