9/10/21 - The Fusil Gras Modèle 1874 M80 was a French service rifle of the 19th century. The Gras used by the French Army was an adaptation to metallic cartridge of the Chassepot breech-loading rifle by Colonel Basile Gras. This example was originally a needle fire Chassepot, the French ignition system introduced in 1866. It was a single shot bolt-action rifle and was among the best of its kind at the type, being superior to the German Dreyse Needle fire system. It was quickly surpassed however, principally by the British Martini-Henry system. In 1874 the self contained cartridge Gras bolt-action system was introduced, and the Chassepots in service were converted to this system,and had additional markings added indicating this. The left side of the receiver marked St. Étienne MLE 1866 - 74 / M80 indicating manufacture at the government arsenal at St. Etienne. The rifle has arsenal proofs on most parts, and also is marked S.1873 T. 78 indicating that it was originally manufactured as a Chassepot in 1873, an then converted to Gras in 1878. This one is all matching, including the stock, and has retained most of its original finish. There is spotty wear on the front barrel band, wear around the high edges, and spotty oxidation throughout. The stock is nice and maker-marked. There are minor dings, bruises, and scratches throughout. The bore has decent rifling with minor oxidation throughout.
