April 27-30, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/27/2021
The SCOTTI Model X, named after its designer Alfredo Scotti, was designed utilizing already existing stocks of Carcano M91 barrels, bayonet lugs, trigger guard & magazine housings, as well as other small components manufactured by the Royal Arms Factory of Terni in order to simplify production. The bolt and other assemblies being manufactured by Autoscotti. It is one of the very few military rifles that operate on the principle of delayed blow back rather than the much more common retarded blowback. On that basis alone it is a very rare gun and is one that draws interest and creates conversation. The Model X, as well as several other rifles, were tested over the course of five years by the Royal Italian Army between 1934-1935. While the SCOTTI Model X was found to be suitable, it never progressed past initial field trials, with production ceasing at only 250 rifles produced. This example is marked "SCOTTI/ MOD. X" over the chamber with "ARMI AUTOMATICHE SCOTTI -BRESCIA-" on the receiver wall. Small Italian proofs are present on the left side of the receiver, as well as the left and right sides of the barrel. Matching serial number "227" found on the receiver (below the wood line), receiver end cap, barrel, bayonet lug, bolt body, bolt head, firing pin, trigger guard and magazine well assembly, clip release assembly, and stock. Rear barrel band is marked "226". Rear sight base is case colored, with the trigger assembly, clip release assembly, and bolt assembly being in-the-white. Complete with a three-piece Carcano M38 cleaning rod set. CONDITION: Metal components retain large amounts of their original blue finish, exhibiting some areas of wear, as well as a few minor markings from handling and storage. Trigger guard and magazine housing exhibit some scattered areas that show through to brown patina, as well as some scratches and marks from storage. Case coloring on rear sight base retains strong coloring, with some moderate fading in unprotected areas. Mirror bore, exhibiting well-defined lands and grooves throughout. Trigger guard and magazine housing screws are in-the-white and appear to be contemporary replacements. Stock bears some scattered dings and impressions, as well as a small gouge on the right side of the buttstock. Upper handguard bears a crack to the rear end and shows some impressions and indentations. A fine example of a scarce and seldom encountered SCOTTI Model X trials rifle. -MLW-
Accessories
Cleaning Rod Sections
Caliber/Bore
6.5x52mm Carcano
Paperwork
Information, Article