Terni Arsenal Carcano M38 Finnish SA Contract 7.35x51 Bolt-Action Rifle (1939)
Built at the Terni Arsenal in 1939 for Finland’s Winter War procurement, this Carcano Fucile Corto Modello 1938 is one of roughly 94,500 short rifles shipped under the SA contract. Chambered in its original 7.35x51 mm and fitted with the taller Finnish blade front sight, it retains matching serial numbers and the boxed “SA” ownership stamp. The rifle represents Italy’s rare intermediate-caliber, fixed-sight service design, making it a desirable WWII collectible.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor scratching, scuffing, and small blemishes are visible on the stock and metal surfaces but do not affect function.
What’s Included
- Steel Carcano en-bloc clip
This M38 retains its original 21-inch barrel with progressive Carcano rifling, giving the 7.35 mm cartridge consistent spin as it travels down the bore. The fixed V-notch rear sight and Finnish-installed tall blade are factory-set for a 150 m zero, reflecting the rifle’s intended use in Nordic conditions.
The boxed “SA” mark on the receiver and matching serial numbers on the barrel and stock confirm Finnish acceptance and integrity. Italian crown proofs remain sharp, underscoring careful post-war storage and maintenance.
The straight-grip hardwood stock features side sling mounts suited to Finnish carry doctrine, while the blued steel receiver and barrel show uniform finish with only minor handling marks. All mechanical functions, including the six-round en-bloc clip feed, operate smoothly.
As an unconverted 7.35 mm specimen, this rifle stands out from later 6.5 mm rebuilds, preserving the experimental intermediate-caliber concept Italy pursued just before WWII. Its documented 1939 production for Finland, scarce chambering, and intact original features make it a noteworthy addition to any military collection.