Original French Fusil Modèle 1866 Chassepot Needle Fire Rifle by Châtellerault dated 1872 – Matching Serial C 75249 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 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.

The Chassepot rifle of 1866 was a single shot bolt-action rifle and was among the best of it’s 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Martini-Henry, and was obsoleted in 1874 with the introduction of the metallic cartridge Gras Rifle that was in turn superseded in 1886 with the Lebel Rifle.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 honestly one of the best we have ever had! The rifle is clearly dated C 1872 on the nocks form, and is marked on the receiver MLE 1866. to the right of the manufacturer information:

MANUFACTURE
Châtellerault

This is the marking for Manufacture d’Armes de Châtellerault, the Imperial Arsenal at Châtellerault, located in Western France. The rifle is serial numbered C 75249 on all major parts of the rifle, including all parts of the bolt, barrel, stock, and bayonet stand. Even the cleaning rod is matched! That makes this a great “ALL MATCHING” example, with no parts swapped out over the years! The bore is excellent, with a bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There is little sign that this rifle was ever used. The action cycles well, and has an intact leather sealing washer on the bolt (others are missing), as well as what looks to be an intact needle that isn’t broken off. 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 bright polished patina throughout. The stock is in very good condition, though it does have a crack on the left side by the receiver tang, and the right side has a sizeable chunk torn out just by the sling swivel. However, it still has a legible cartouche on the right side of the stock, with a date of AOÛT / 1872 (August 1872) and M marked on the wood insert. The stock has a lovely brown color with an oiled finish.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1871
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.