Standard French infantry rifle introduced in 1874 , based on the Chassepot design of 1866 but adapted for fully metallic cartridge. Remained in service in France untill 1886. Many were made by Steyr in Austria for the Greek market where they stayed in use and extremely popular until after WW2.
Marks and Stamps: (L side of barrel) EM proof stamps Serial no (R side of barrel) C 1879 (L side of receiver) MANUFACTURE D'ARMES Chatellerault MLE 1874 (L side of Butt and bolt head) Serial noAccession Number: 128 | Period of Use: 1874-1886 |
Type: Black powder rifle | War Zones: |
Country of Origin: France | Type Date: 1874 |
Manufacturer: Manufacture d'Armes Chatellerault | Serial Number: 88757 |
Manufacture Date: 1879 | Calibre/Ammunition: 11mm |
Weight: 4180g | Length Overall: 1310mm |
Cyclic Rate: single shot | Length Barrel: 797mm |
Deactivation Certificate Number: Antique |