French Berthier model 1907-15

[JensF.]

One of my newest acquisitions is this french Berthier model 1907-15.

This beautiful and very long rifle, over 1,30 m, has the french standart caliber 8 mm Lebel (8 x 50R) and can be loaded with 3-cartridge loading frames (like the Mannlicher or the obsolete german Gewehr 88). However it is, in my opinion, not the best rifle. It hasn't got a safety and to remove the bolt you have to remove a screw in the bolthead with a screwdriver. No comparision to a german Gewehr 98 with its perfect bolt system which can be removed in 1 second.

This is a deactivated decoration rifle matching the german laws. For example the cartridge chamber is closed (welded).

[JensF.]

Closeup of the buttstock.

[JensF.]

Made for the standart Lebel spike bayonet.

[JensF.]

Closeup of the bolt.

[JensF.]

The markings on the right side. Dated 1917.

[JensF.]

Markings on the left side. The rifle model and the maker; the french arsenal of Continsouza. I think this is a rare maker for a Berthier. All guns I saw before were made in the arsenal at St. Etienne.

[JensF.]

More technical data:

Caliber: 8 x 50R Lebel

Length: 1.306 m

Barrel: 803 mm

Weight: 3.81 kg

Rifling: 4 grooves

Magazine capacity: 3 rounds

There is also a model 16 of this rifle. As far as I know the only difference is, that this model also accepts 5-Round loading frames.

[Hun Helmet]

Hello,

I too bought a berthier and it's on the way. I just sent payment for it. Here is the auction link,

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=44003675

I think mine is a latter version with the magazine extentsion. I am in the USA and no laws require we de mill our old rifles at least not yet.

Can you tell me more about why some european nations have laws requiring such awful things be done to such old works of art and history?

I don't undersatand why the ammo can't be banned instread.

Mike

[JensF.]

Hun Helmet: Thats because the rifle can be sold for decoration only to everyone with the min. age of 18 years. Otherwise you need a gun licence for it.

[Hun Helmet]

What else is a near 100 year old rifle for other then decoration?

In the U.S. you need a lisense or permit for some classes of guns. There seems to be no reason to regulate antiques to the same degree.

[Chris Boonzaier]

Hi Jens...

what did you pay for this and are there any more?

If I am not mistaken, Lebel ammunition is as rare as chicken teeth?

[JensF.]

I think I paid 160 Euros for it and no, there are not more of them

[Chris Boonzaier]

I was offered one for EUR230 and stupidly turned it down.... now I cannot find one anywhere....

[Michael Johnson]

When I first started collecting c. 1974, Ed Denby had two Berthiers for sale - $65.00 each (Canadian) - and that included the bayonet and scabbard.

Sigh.

[JensF.]

Have you got a Lebel?

I was offered one for EUR230 and stupidly turned it down.... now I cannot find one anywhere....

[Chris Boonzaier]

Have you got a Lebel?

Not yet.... I just seem to find those silly little carbines... :-(