W+F Bern Swiss 1896/11 - 285xxx
Swiss 1896/11 Infantry Rifle, produced in 1902, in good condition, with 75% finish. 2/5 Bore (dull bore, worn rifling, light to mild pitting throughout). 3/5 Stock. Stock and handguard matching serial numbers. Bolt matching serial number. Magazine matching serial number.
Furniture has been heavily sanded, yet there are still gouges present. The forward end of the furniture has been sanded so heavily in front of the front barrel band that it is now smaller than the original profile.
On the right side of the stock the finger groove is very shallow and there are scratches and gouges in and around the finger groove area. There is an area of gouging halfway between the end of the finger groove and the rear barrel band. On the left side of the stock there are some scattered pressure marks, including a heavy pressure mark above the rear sling mount. Pressure marks along the side of the stock from the grip to the right side of the finger groove, as well as heavy gouging on the grip above the trigger guard. The edge of the finger groove has been rounded off. On the underside of the stock there is gouging around the trigger guard. The heel of the stock is stamped with "VAUD" for Canton Vaud. Handguard has a gouge on the top side, rear of the rear barrel band.
Bluing had been previously refurbished, as evidenced by the left and right sides of the rear sight and the tangent sight itself are blued rather than polished. Receiver has heavy finish wear and heavy patina. Moderate finish wear and light patina on the rear barrel band. Light finish wear and light patina on the front barrel band. Moderate to heavy finish wear and mild to fair patina on the magazine plate and trigger guard. Magazine has heavy finish wear and light to mild patina on the base.
Receiver is P 37 stamped indicating privatization in 1937.
Receiver is also stamped below the serial number with ·9, indicating armory refurbishment in 1909. This rifle was originally an 1889/96 before being converted into a 1896/11 in an unknown year.
Bolt knobs are non-original and are taller than the original bolt knobs.
There is a crack in the cocking piece that has not been repaired.
Includes muzzle cover and leather sling.
C&R Eligible. Import engraved.
