Guns International #: 103193292
Seller's Inventory #: 35560

Category - Antique Rifles - Cartridge - Waffenfabrik Bern Rifles

Category
Antique Rifles - Cartridge
Waffenfabrik Bern Rifles

Swiss Waffenfabrik Bern Vetterli M1878/81 .41 Swiss RF Numbers Matching Spare Firing Pin

Description:
Also Known As: Swiss Vetterli Repeating Rifle
Make: Waffenfabrik Bern
Model: M1878/81
Finish: Blued metal with case-hardened receiver (aged patina present)
Caliber: .41 Swiss (10.4x38mmR)
Action: Manually operated bolt-action repeater
Barrel length: Approx. 33"
Bore: Very clean and mostly reflective with some spotty fouling
Stock material: Walnut, military-style full-length stock
Sights: Model 1881 Ladder-style rear sight; inverted V front sight
Features:

• Matching serial numbers throughout
• Upgraded rear sight from M181
• Tube-fed magazine system
• Integral cleaning rod

Scope: None (iron sights only)
MFG Date: Circa 1881 (based on serial range and 1878/81 pattern)
Extras: Spare firing pin stored beneath the metal buttplate
Condition: Very good for its age – strong mechanics, clean bore with minor fouling, complete, no import marks noted
Shipping cost: $100.00
Tech:  DH071425.1199
Please refer to the photos for the overall condition. FFL is required. 

A piece of Swiss precision and firearms evolution, this Waffenfabrik Bern M1878/81 Vetterli stands out as one of the first military rifles to successfully pair a bolt action with a high-capacity tubular magazine. Chambered in the unique .41 Swiss, this rifle features matching numbers, a very clean bore, and even retains a spare firing pin hidden under the buttplate—an often-lost detail. The refined M1881 improvements ensure smoother cycling and better durability. Ideal for collectors of 19th-century military arms or fans of early bolt-action technology, this Vetterli is a well-preserved, functional example of late 1800s innovation.

Curio/Relic: Yes
Rifle Caliber: 10.4x38mmR Swiss
Manufacturer: Waffenfabrik Bern
Model: Vetterli 1878/81
Serial Number: 190084
Barrel Length: 33
Condition: Very Good
Extras: Number matching

Price: $1,199.00