French Mle1866 Chassepot Rifle, Wall Hanger

Original era manufacture. Black powder, single shot, 11mm French Army rifle which gained fame during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. It's range superiority over the Prussian Needle Gun was dramatic, nearly a three to one advantage. This example is a matching rifle, the serial number 15609 can be seen on the bolt, receiver and stock. It does however have several glaring defects but hopefully someone will see its potential and put humpty-dumpty together again. Here goes, the cleaning rod is missing, the front of the bolt face is missing and there is a large crack in the stock at the wrist. Overall the weapon presents a very dark appearance with surface corrosion on the barrel and other metal surfaces. I pulled the bolt and looked down the barrel. I saw bright metal and deep rifling along with the expected dust and dirt from time. You can work the bolt and pull the trigger and that seems to be about it. The Holy Water plug is in the stock.