Albini-Braendlin Model 1853/67 Belgian Rifle

Very uncommon Belgian conversion to breech loading rifle. Barrel 34 3/8 inches, overall 53 3/8 inches, caliber 11mm Belgian Albini (11 x 50R). Lock is stamped JH over 58 indicating 1858 original manufacture. Right stock cartouche marked F.DG (Government Manufacture), inspector’s initials JH and date 1867 with Crown over L for King Leopold of Belgium. There is no conversion cartouche on the left side of the stock. Knoxform marked with many inspection marks including serial number 1346 and GB in an oval for Belgian Government (Gouvernment Belge) military use. Rear sight is graduated to 1300 meters and has the later Halkin modification extending the sight to the right to enable indirect fire using a button on the side of the middle band as the front sight. The rear sight is numbered on the back to 2100 meters for this purpose. Matching serial numbers on butt tang, hammer, middle band top of barrel and cleaning rod. Bore is excellent. This rifle has never been “collector owned” and was in storage for many years. The action is bright but never cleaned so covered in surface debris, oil, dust, gunk and possibly light corrosion. Very researchable, very uncommon. Antique, no licence required to purchase or own.