Italian Vetterli Cavalry Carbine mod. 1870

The Vetterli Cavalry Carbine mod. 1870, formally known as the Moschetto da Cavalleria mod. 1870, is a single-shot, rimfire carbine which utilizes the same bolt mechanism design as the Fucile mod. 1870 rifle, adopted by the Italian infantry. The Vetterli cavalry carbine was formally adopted in 1871, issued to Italian cavalry units starting in 1872, and continued to see use in some form through the early 1900s, despite the development of magazine fed replacements. As a result of this long period of field use, these arms are difficult to find in good condition, not converted to centerfire operation, and complete with both bayonet and cleaning rod. One feature that makes the Cavalleria a unique cavalry piece is the long, almost 21 inches, socket bayonet. Having a cruciform blade just over 18-¼ inches, the bayonet, when not in use, is stored in a reverse position under the barrel with the blade inserted into the forearm and the socket locked around a lug on the underside of the barrel; a design that gives the Moschetto da Cavalleria mod. 1870 an interesting and distinctive appearance. The Moschetto da Carabinieri Reali mod. 1870, employed by the Italian Military Police, also has this bayonet stow design, but the Reali is a much longer firearm. Learn more about our all matching and complete Italian Vetterli Cavalry Carbine mod. 1870 for sale here!