Guns International #: 102281024
Seller's Inventory #: CM22-94

Category - Rifles - European Sporting - Antique Rifles - Cartridge

Category
Rifles - European Sporting
Antique Rifles - Cartridge

** SOLD ** French Berthier Model MLe 1890/16 Bolt Action Rifle Chambered in 8mm Lebel **Mfg 1891 - Antique - Unique - MAC**

Description:
Here we have a unique French made Berthier Model MLe 1890/16 bolt action rifle chambered in 8mm Lebel caliber. The Berthier rifles and carbines were a family of bolt-action small arms in 8mm Lebel, used in the French Army, and French Colonial Forces, from the 1890s to the beginning of World War II (1940). After the introduction of the Lebel rifle in 1886, the French Army wanted a repeating carbine using the same ammunition as the Lebel to replace their single shot carbine based on the Gras rifle. At the time, many armies based their carbines on their standard rifle model, however the Lebel rifle's tube magazine made it difficult to follow this approach. The Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine addressed this issue by combining a modified Lebel action with an en-bloc clip magazine. With its successful cavalry introduction, the Berthier would go on to be produced in many different carbine and full-length rifle versions. This example is made by MAC (Manufacture d'armes de Châtellerault) in 1891. The 8×50mmR Lebel (8mm Lebel) (designated as the 8 × 51 R Lebel by the C.I.P.) rifle cartridge was the first smokeless powder cartridge to be made and adopted by any country. It was introduced by France in 1886. Formed by necking down the 11×59mmR Gras black powder cartridge, the smokeless 8mm Lebel cartridge started a revolution in military rifle ammunition. Standard 8mm Lebel military ammunition was also the first rifle ammunition to feature a spitzer boat tail bullet, which was adopted in 1898. This particular example is in good overall condition exhibiting proper inspection marks. The metal components have lost some finish over the decades and high edge wear. There is some muzzle wear as would be expected. The 18" barrel has a good bore with strong rifling. The stock and upper handguard have some pressure marks but nothing serious. The rifle has front and rear attachment points for a sling. Sights are a elevation adjustable rear with a blade front having a fine groove in the center. At some point someone put a very light and small "KY" in the stock on the right side at about the back of the trigger guard. This is a very cool piece of European militaria and would make a strong addition to a collection.

PRICE:     $895.00            We are Antique & Modern Firearms in Lexington, KY, a dealer of fine firearms since 1974.
To Inquire please call 859-276-1419        
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SOLD

Antique: Yes
Rifle Caliber: 8mm Lebel
Manufacturer: Berthier
Model: 1890/16
Serial Number: A 21277
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Condition: Good
Metal Condition: Good
Wood Condition: Good
Bore Condition: Good with good rifling
Action: Bolt Action
Manufacture Date: 1891