French Model 1866 Chassepot Rifle

Le Fusil Chassepot Modele 1866, or simply the Chassepot rifle is a single shot bolt-action rifle that was the best of its kind in 1866. Using the Prussian Dreyse needle fire system and a self combustible paper cartridge it fired an 11mm (.43 calibre) lead bullet. The French used this arm during the Franco Prussian war of 1870. In that era of rapid rifle design the Chassepot was quickly surpassed by the Martini-Henry it became obsolete in the French arsenal in1874 with the introduction of the metallic cartridge and the Gras Rifle, which was in turn replaced by the Lebel rifle in 1886. Very interesting and researchable arm. This specimen is in original very good condition with cleaning rod. Bore is excellent. Bolt has needle and rubber obturator. Manufactured at St. Etienne the bolt number matches rifle. There is a rack number on the stock and cartouche showing date of Septembre 1871.