October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2018
This very rare and interesting item started out as a standard French Mle. 1886 Lebel rifle. It was then converted, most likely during the WWI period by the Germans for use a flare gun. The alteration consisted of plugging the magazine tube hole, and replacing the barrel. The French markings were removed from the left side of the receiver at the time of conversion. Numbers are not matching. An extended firing pin was added to the front of the bolt for use with the signal cartridge which is seated significantly further forward than the cartridge the gun was originally designed for. The barrel twists and then slides off for loading. Marked on the top of the chamber "A/ A.G.269". There is a reference to these German conversions of French Lebel rifles in the book "Le fusil Lebel" by Jean Huon & Alain Barrellier, however we do not have a copy of this book. PROVENANCE: The Renowned Collection of Howard Resnick. CONDITION: Fine in as found condition. Missing the front sight which screwed into the top of the barrel, has been missing a long time. Retains a pleasing patina overall with some light surface rust and minor pitting. There are some old wrench marks on the detachable part of the barrel. Bore is pitted. Wood has dings and handling marks, with 4 notches cut into the comb. There is an old crack in the left side of the stock where it meets the receiver. Good mechanical function.