Vetterli 1869/71 - variant of 1873
This was
originally a Vetterli model 1869/1871 rifle, manufactured in 1876 (according to
its serial number). 134,000 of this rifle were produced, including 160
pre-production models of the 1869 model and 1,198 of the 1869 model. This is the
version from around 1873.
Amendments to the ordinance of July 12, 1871:
From the
breech, the barrel of this rifle became octagonal over 75 mm instead of 65 mm
for the 1869 model, in order to strengthen the stock retaining pin.
Amendments to the ordinance of August 21, 1870
On this
rifle: the repeater stop lever, the magazine catch, and the breech cover were
removed, as were all their attachment systems. The cap of this rifle has been
widened from 10 to 15mm to distribute the pressure over a larger area.
The
buttplate, rear sight, and mouthpiece are apparently still from the 69/71 model.
The stamp
on the stock is the acceptance stamp for the stock; this stamp should also
appear on the stock. I had requested a full front-back photo of the stock, but I
didn't receive it! The stock should normally have an acceptance stamp identical
to that of the stock and a boxwood reinforcement pin running right through it.
This
rifle has been shortened at the front by approximately 300mm; in addition, it
has been converted to a centerfire stock, most likely for hunting. There are two
types of hunting cartridges: the 10.4 x 38 R for the 69/71 model, and the 10.4 x
47 R for the 1870 model.
I note
that the front sight is no longer original and has been significantly raised,
which is normal given the shortening of the weapon.
I also
note that the capucine has been modified into a sling-mounted grenadière; this
is also due to the shortening of the stock.
I am
convinced that the socket bayonet can no longer be attached to this rifle.
I also
requested a good photo of the bolt head from the percussion end, but I did not
receive one.
I also
did not receive the dimensions of the grenadière's width, which should be
between 10 and 15mm.
MAX and PHL
Dimensions received subsequently:
Total
length 1042 mm
Barrel
length 575 mm
Butt
plate width 39 mm
Butt
plate height 12 cm
Total
length 1040 mm
Front
grenadier width 45 mm
Rear grenadier width 45 mm
