Guns International #: 102942901
Seller's Inventory #: 8
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Guns International #: 102942901
Category - Military Arms
- Antique Rifles - Cartridge
Fine French Chassepot Model 1866 Bolt Action Needle-Fire Rifle
Description: The Chassepot Model 1866 rifle was a groundbreaking military firearm introduced in France during the mid-19th century. Named after its inventor, Antoine Alphonse Chassepot, this breech-loading bolt action rifle was a major innovation in military technology and played a pivotal role in the evolution of infantry weapons. The Chassepot was among the first rifles to feature a needle-fire mechanism, and used a paper cartridge containing a lead bullet and a charge of black powder. The cartridge was ignited by a needle-like firing pin piercing the paper to strike a primer at the base of the bullet. A rubber obturator in the breech mechanism provided a better seal, reducing gas leakage. With its rifled barrel chambered for use with an 11mm (.433) bullet, the Chassepot offered superior accuracy and an effective range of up to 1,200 meters, outperforming many contemporary rifles. The Chassepot was officially adopted by the French army in 1866 to replace the earlier muzzle-loading rifles. It became widely recognized for its superior performance during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871). In this conflict, French troops equipped with Chassepots demonstrated their effectiveness against the Prussian Dreyse needle gun, which had a shorter range and inferior ballistic performance. The Chassepot was eventually replaced by the Model 1874 Gras rifle in French service, which used a metallic cartridge case. Surviving examples of Chassepot needle-fire rifles are scarce, and are rarely found with pristine markings and edges in the metal and wood like this one. This 1872 dated example has matching numbers showing on the bayonet lug, breech of the barrel, bolt and crisply stamped on the left of the buttstock. There are mixed assembly numbers showing on some of the screw heads, although their patina appears consistent with the rest of the gun. There are various defined original inspection stamps showing in the stock. The firing needle is missing it’s tip (a common occurrence on these rifles), and what appears to be possibly the original rubber obturator/gas sealing ring is still present. One will search a long time to acquire a better Chassepot than this specimen offered. If you have been looking for a good one, then look no further! Price includes shipping in the 48 states. As an antique, this can ship directly to your doorstep! Price: $2,200.00 Antique: Yes Condition: 8.5/10 Manufacture Date: 1872 Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 102942901
Seller's Inventory #: 8
Guns International #: 102942901
Seller's Inventory #: 8