RARE**ARAB CAPTURED & MODIFIED FRENCH FORIEGN LEGION**Manufacture d'Armes de Saint-Étienne Or Tulle Arsenal Fusil Gras M80 Model 1874 (74/80) 11mm Calibre Bolt Action Carbine. Sn 23662 carbine Bolt Action Obsolete Rifle

**RARE**ARAB CAPTURED & MODIFIED FRENCH FORIEGN LEGION**Manufacture d'Armes de Saint-Étienne Or Tulle Arsenal Fusil Gras M80 Model 1874 (74/80) 11mm Calibre Bolt Action Carbine. Sn 23662 - 23662

In 1874 France adopted a single shot rifle, this single shot rifle was based on the French 1866 Chassepot Needle Rifle. These weapons designated Gras M80 Model 1874 (Fusil Gras M80 Modèle 1874) and the rare carbine variant were the main long arm issue for the French Military and were used for front line service until 1886, when a new rifle, the 1886 Lebel was designed. The Gras continued to be issued to French troops throughout WW1. This is a rare Gras 74/80 Carbine period North African arab captured most likely from the French Foreign Legion, the wood adapted by mounting with a carved wood ball on the butt of the shoulder stock for carrying under the arm of the arab warrior mounted on a Camel. The shoulder stock also has 3 brass strengthening bands added during the modification. It has brass furniture and the metal work has even patina aged throughout. It has a block with blade foresight & flip up rear sight. It measures 39” overall with a 20 ¼” barrel. The rifled bore has staining & residue consistent with age & use . The breech is Arsenal marked with what looks like Manufacture d'Armes de Saint-Étienne (or Tulle). It is also marked 'M80’ & ‘Mle1874' model detail. It has matching numbers 15827 on the barrel and bolt. It has the correct turn down bolt and its loading and firing actions work crisply. The price for this rare carbine includes UK delivery. NB As an antique obsolete calibre rifle no licence is required to own this item in the UK if retained as part of a collection or display. Sn 23662

£475.00