Infantry Rifle Said Test Kropatschek System, Model 1874-1885, Third Republic.

INFANTRY TEST RIFLE WITH KROPATSCHEK SYSTEM, model 1874-1885, Third Republic. 19576 Weapon designated as a “prototype” of the Lebel model 1886 rifle, according to Jean Boudriot's expression. Steel metal parts with rebronzed finish professionally done with the exception of the polished-white cylinder head. Two-piece walnut frame comprising a straight buttstock without protrusion called English style, and the barrel where the barrel rests. The latter has five sides at the level of the thunder then cylindrical, held to the barrel by means of a grenadière and a mouthpiece. The magazine, specific to the weapon, is positioned under the barrel, the cartridges being introduced there with the breech open, the tilting bucket ensuring the presentation of the ammunition, front sight of the triangular weapon on a cubic base, with slider rear sight, board shooting, a second sliding board allowing a prolonged shooting. Bulge of the selector on the right side. Rod blocked in a slot on the left side of the weapon. Each part of the weapon has the same number, "N 35187". Breech box in the name of the manufacturer "MANUFACTURE D'ARMES TULLE", and model "Mle 1874-85". Total length of the weapon: 1.243 m. caliber: 11mm bold, cartridges sometimes shrunk as needed. France. Third Republic. Weapon professionally tanned. A few small holes in the wood filled with wood putty. Small trace of oxidation on the butt plate. Mechanism in very good working order. Weapon in very good condition.