Original French Fusil Modèle 1866 Chassepot Needle Fire Rifle by St. Étienne dated 1871 – Matching Serial L 79569 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Martini-Henry, and was obsoleted in 1874 with the introduction of the metallic cartridge Gras Rifle that was in turn superseded in 1886 with the Lebel Rifle.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 S.1871 on the nocks form, and is marked on the receiver MLE 1866. to the right of the manufacturer information:

St. Étienne

This is the marking for Manufacture Impériale de St. Étienne (also known as Manufacture d’Armes de St. Étienne), the Imperial Arsenal at St. Étienne, located in southern France. The rifle is serial numbered L 79569 on all major parts of the rifle, including all parts of the bolt, barrel, stock, and bayonet stand. Even the cleaning rod is matched! 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 intact leather sealing washers on the bolt, as well as 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 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 reconditioned, which has made some of the stock markings faint. However, it still has a mostly legible cartouche on the right side of the stock, with a date of AOÛT / 1871 (August 1871) and ME marked on the wood insert.

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.