Vetterli repeating rifle 6.5 made 1884

This is an interesting Italian bolt action Vetterli repeating rifle with Mannlicher type box magazine. It was manufactured at Brescia Arsenal in 1884, as stated on the left side of the chamber. The old Vetterli rifles were converted to 6.5mm Carcano caliber, as an emergency measure, to prevent shortage of rifles in the Italian army during the World War One. To strengthen the action, an additional bolt lug was installed behind the bolt handle. The receiver dust cover was removed during the conversion works, as it was judged, at the time, to be an unnecessary feature. The rifle was completely refurbished during the conversion. Matching serial numbers (stamped on the chamber and buttstock only). The number on the buttstock was over stamped, most likely during the conversion works. No serial numbers are stamped on other parts of the rifle, which is correct for this model. This rifle has original, Swiss style rear sights calibrated up to 2000 meters. It has two barrel bands and a bayonet lug on the right side of the barrel, 2½” from the muzzle. This rifle is in very good condition for an antique. This rifle is heavily marked both on the metal and on the stock, but is very sound and free from cracks.
There are two arsenal repairs, one on either side of the magazine, that were done when this rifle was converted to fire the 6.5 cartridge. This simply consisted of filling the space around the new magazine with wood, as it is narrower than the previous magazine. The majority of the bluing is intact except for on the barrel bands, bolt handle, and some of the magazine and trigger guard assemblies. The bore is in excellent shape, and it includes the original cleaning rod.

Due to the length of this rifle (over 48” packed), the shipping charges will be higher than normal. (£35)