Original French Fusil Modèle 1866 Chassepot Contract Rifle by Glisenti of Brescia through Cahen-Lyon et Cie dated 1868 – Serial U 35310 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Despite the fact that the French needle fire Chassepot rifle was far superior to the needle fire Prussian Dreyse rifle, the French took a swift and decisive beating in the Franco-Prussian war of 1870-71. In fairness to the French, the defeat was due to Napoleon III’s foolhardiness in allowing himself to get captured at the Battle of Sedan and the show was then over. During and after the conflict, about 665,000 Chassepot rifles had been captured by the German coalition that defeated France in 1871.

The Chassepot rifle of 1866 was a single shot bolt-action rifle and was among the best of its kind in 1866. It was quickly surpassed, principally by the British Martini-Henry, and was obsoleted in 1874 with the introduction of the metallic cartridge Gras Rifle that was in turn superseded in 1886 with the Lebel Rifle.

Our example here is a real treat, and is dated 1868 on the barrel nocks form, only the third year that the Chassepot was in production. The receiver is marked with the name of a very rare contractor who procured these rifles, CAHEN – LYON et C’IE, as well as with M’LE 1866. Cahen-Lyon was a private firm that the French government contracted to meet the increased demand while the new factory at St-Etienne was being completed. Cahen-Lyon, in turn, subcontracted to various European manufacturers, which were noted in script on the receiver. This example was made by the famous Italian manufacturer Glisenti a Brescia (Glisenti in Brescia), which is still clearly visible.

The rifle is serial numbered U 35310 on the barrel, bayonet stand, and left butt stock, while the rest of the numbers are all unmatching, indicating it was most likely reconditioned at arsenal at some point. The bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish showing crisp lands and grooves, and very little sign of having been used at all. The action cycles well, and has intact leather sealing washers on the bolt, as well as a fully intact needle. It’s very rare to find these still in this intact condition!

The rifle bears French proofs along with French military and acceptance markings. These are present on most of the metal components of the rifle, which have a lovely aged gray patina, with wear throughout. The stock is in very good condition, showing no major damage and only a few dents and dings. It has been arsenal refinished in the past, which has removed many of the markings and made the serial number faint. It has a lovely dark brown color, showing great grain.

This is a wonderful and unique example of a rare ignition system making it a rare and sought antique rifle. Ready to display! Ready to add to your collection and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1867
Caliber: 11 mm (.433 inches)
Ammunition Type: Pin-Fire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 32 Inches
Overall Length: 51.6 Inches
Action: Bolt-Action
Feed System: Single Shot

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.