French Fusil modèle 1866 or Mle 1866-74 Chassepot/Gras M80 Rifle- Obsolete Calibre

Image Gallery:

Product Information

A French Fusil modèle 1866 or Mle 1866-74 Chassepot/Gras M80 Rifle. Originally manufactured by MAS (Manufacture D'Armes, St. Etienne) in 1866, in 1874 it was converted to fire the then new metallic cartridges. 1880 saw additional modification made that involved cutting an annular channel and a longitudinal groove in the receiver for gas escape in case of cartridge rupture. As well as being manufactured by the various French state-owned manufacturing companies they were also manufactured under contract in England by the "Potts et Hunts" . However, this example has a British military broad arrow or crows foot acceptance stamp on the receiver which is normally associated with British military issued weapons. This is a very unusual marked to be found on this type of rifle. The Chassepot was used by French forces during the Franco-Prussian and First World War. It proved to be a very accurate and reliable rifle with French partisans using them against the Nazis during the Second World War. This example is chambered in an obsolete calibre 11mm and comes fitted with cleaning rod, bayonet and one inert round. It can be cocked, stripped and dry fired.

This is an antique obsolete calibre rifle and is sold as a collectors item only.

To order Call 01547 529093 or 05603 416575 or email sales@deactivated-guns.co.uk.

Product Code: 186C8

OUT OF STOCK