Deactivated WWI French Berthier Rifle

This is a rare, First World War dated French Army, Berthier MLe M16 rifle, manufactured by French arms company St. Etienne dated 1917. This model was first adopted for the French Army in 1915 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. The Mle saw active service in both world wars being used by the French resistance in WWII. Comes fitted with an original leather sling.