Guns International #: 103163839
Seller's Inventory #: 254054

Category - Military Rifles - Non-US - Military Arms

Category
Military Rifles - Non-US
Military Arms

GREAT WAR French CONTINSOUZA Contract M 1916 BERTHIER 8mm LEBEL Carbine C&R Etablissment Continsouza WORLD WAR I & II Rifle

Description:
GREAT WAR French CONTINSOUZA Contract M 1916 BERTHIER 8mm LEBEL Carbine C&R

Etablissment Continsouza WORLD WAR I & II Rifle

Here we present a C&R French Continsouza Model 1916 Berthier Bolt Action Carbine made circa the World War I era by French gunmaker Continsouza in France. Établissements Continsouza was founded 1909 by Pierre-Victor Continsouza and was a private company contracted to manufacture the rifle. Prior to World War I, they made film projectors and film equipment.

During the early stages of the war, it was quickly recognized that the Model 1907 Berthier's three-shot magazine was simply too small in comparison to foreign weapons, requiring too-frequent reloading. Additionally, it was found that trench mud and grit could enter the weapon through the opening in the bottom of the magazine. To correct these issues, the Model 1916 Berthier rifle was introduced with a five-round en-bloc clip. The clip discharge opening at the bottom of the protruding magazine was replaced by a spring loaded trapdoor to keep out dirt and debris. This improved 5-shot design was then fitted to existing rifles and carbine-length Berthier models.

Many Model 1916 rifles and carbines were produced too late to see service in World War I, but were used after the war, particularly in colonial service. Berthier rifles and carbines continued in service during the Second World War in all branches of French service, including infantry and mounted units. Colonial and Foreign Legion forces in particular continued to use the Model 1916 Berthier due to a shortage of the new MAS-36 bolt-action rifle. Despite the advent of the MAS-36, the French Army did not have enough of the new rifles to equip even half of its frontline interior troops. Berthier Model 1916 5-shot rifles and carbines saw action in both France and Norway. After the fall of France in 1940, the Berthier could be found in service with both Vichy and Free French units.

The overall condition is good. Dark patina throughout. The action is excellent. The bore is nicely reflective with strong rifling. The stock shows much use. A fantastic piece of Great War history!

Own the original! This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic.

Barrel is 18 inches.

Caliber: 8mm Lebel

Overall condition as seen in photos.

Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING. Will need to be sent to your local FFL or C&R licensee. This firearm is classified as a Curio & Relic.
Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.

ancestryguns

$1800

#254054
 

Antique: Yes

Price: $1,800.00
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