Description French St. Etienne MLE 1866-74 chambered in 11x59mmR Gras with a single shot capacity and a 32″ barrel with bayonet lug. Originally a Chassepot rifle manufactured in 1871 with “S.1871” marked on the right side of the barrel shank, and converted to a Gras rifle in 1879 with “S.79” marking. Refinished blued barrel and receiver. Smooth wood stock with metal butt plate. Front and rear sling swivels. Adjustable rear tangent sight and fixed front blade. The left side of the barrel is marked “P*G” “B”, “G”. The right side of the barrel is marked “ME”. The left side of the receiver is marked “S.t Etienne MLE 1866-74”. The left side of the stock is marked with a seal that reads “SEPTEMBRE MA 1879”. Matching bayonet lug, cleaning rod, barrel, three bolt parts, and stock. Many other small proof marks and cartouches are visible. Antique ships directly to most buyers home. Condition: Antique Good, The barrel and receiver have been refinished with visible buffing marks under the bluing and faded markings/lettering on the receiver. Finish loss, finish patina, and metal oxidation on most of the metal parts. Scratches, scuffs, and dings of varying size on the wood but does not appear to have cracks or other damage that changes the integrity of the stock. Very clean and shiny bore with strong rifling. Action and trigger appear to function but has not been test fired. Barrel Length: 32″ Serial: L21548 Manufacturer: St. ETIENNE Year: 1871 Caliber: 11X59mmR Gras Model: MLE 1866-74 Gras