Waffenfabrik Bern Vetterli Model 1869/71 Centerfire-Converted .41 Swiss Bolt-Action Rifle, 33 in Barrel, 12-Round Tubular Magazine
This Swiss Vetterli Model 1869/71 stands out as a centerfire-converted example of one of the earliest widely issued repeating bolt-action infantry rifles. Built by Waffenfabrik Bern, it features a 33 inch barrel, a 12-round under-barrel tubular magazine, and matching serials on the receiver and barrel shank. Clear markings, including Waffenfabrik Bern stampings and an A. G. Z.
stock marking, add to its historical appeal.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is rust on the bottom of the trigger guard. The rifle has been converted to centerfire and is not chambered for 8mm. The rear sling attachment is present and intact. The wood furniture shows dents and scratches throughout.
What’s Included
- Waffenfabrik Bern Vetterli Model 1869/71 centerfire-converted rifle in .41 Swiss
- Integral full-length cleaning rod
Designed and produced in Switzerland, the Vetterli 1869/71 combined a manually operated, rear-locking bolt with a 12-round tubular magazine, offering rapid repeating fire for its era. This example retains the turned-down bolt handle, sheet-metal striker sleeve, and a period-correct cocking piece noted for the pattern.
The rifle has been professionally converted to centerfire while remaining in .41 Swiss. The right-side oval loading port and lifter system support the under-barrel tubular magazine, preserving the original repeating functionality. The bore condition is excellent, with a clean, mirror finish and sharp rifling.
It wears a two-piece walnut stock with factory checkered forend panels and a steel crescent buttplate. An integral, full-length cleaning rod with a knurled tip is present. The stock bears an A. G. Z.
marking, and the receiver carries Waffenfabrik Bern markings, contributing to its documented Swiss origin.
Sighting equipment includes a fixed front blade and an adjustable rear sight with graduated markings, consistent with Swiss service practice of the period. Matching serial numbers on the receiver and barrel shank further set this rifle apart for collectors and historians.