Swiss Vetterli Model 1878 Rifle

Swiss Vetterli Model 1878 Rifle

Model: Swiss Vetterli Rifle

Country: Switzerland

Action: Bolt-Action, single-shot (original configuration)

Caliber: 10.4×38R Swiss (Rimfire, black powder)

Barrel: Long military barrel

Sights: Rear ladder sight, front blade

Stock: Swiss walnut military stock

Markings: Swiss military proofs & serials present

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Years of Production

• Swiss Vetterli Series: 1869–1889
• Model 1878: Produced in the late 1870s–1880s
  (Pre-dates smokeless powder; true black-powder service rifle)

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Condition (from photos)

• Honest, even patina throughout
• Mechanically complete bolt and trigger
• Stock solid with expected military wear
• Metal shows smooth age wear, no heavy abuse
• Correct single-shot configuration (not Italian Vitali conversion)

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Historical Context

The Swiss Vetterli was one of the earliest bolt-action military rifles adopted by a European nation. Renowned for Swiss precision and workmanship, these rifles were never heavily abused in combat, making surviving examples desirable to collectors of 19th-century military arms.

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