Swiss Vetterli Model 1878 Infantry Rifle, .41 Rimfire, SIG Neuhausen, 33 in Barrel, 12+1 Tubular Magazine - Antique
This Swiss Vetterli Model 1878 Infantry Rifle stands out as a historically significant early repeating bolt-action service rifle produced by SIG Neuhausen. It features a 33-inch barrel, a 12+1 under-barrel tubular magazine, and matching serial numbers on key components. Clear Swiss military markings and well-executed stock checkering add to its appeal as an antique example of late-19th-century Swiss craftsmanship.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Specific Condition Notes: Given the age of the rifle, it is in decent to good condition with heavy signs of use.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Fouling: Moderate Fouling - Lead or copper fouling with noticeable buildup.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- Swiss Vetterli Model 1878 Infantry Rifle in .41 Rimfire
- Integral steel cleaning rod
Manufactured in Switzerland and confirmed by the oval SIG cartouche on the receiver wall, this rifle represents the mature Vetterli pattern adopted for infantry service. Its model-typical overall length is about 52.2 inches with a weight of about 10.1 pounds, reflecting the robust construction expected of late-19th-century service arms.
The action is bolt-action with a distinctive down-turned bolt handle capped by a spherical knob. A lightening slot in the bolt sleeve is present. Feeding is via a tubular magazine beneath the barrel with a stated 12+1 capacity, a key innovation that gave the Vetterli line its repeating capability.
Sighting equipment consists of a front sight set in a dovetail and a flip-up tangent/ladder rear sight with protective wings. Furniture details include an oil-finished hardwood stock with a straight grip, extensive machine-cut fore-end checkering, and an inletted rectangular escutcheon. Two barrel bands plus a forward nosecap secure the fore-end, and sling loops are fitted on the middle band underside and at the toe of the butt. A visible steel cleaning rod resides beneath the barrel.
Markings and provenance details include a CL inspector marking on the barrel shank, the oval SIG manufacturer cartouche on the left receiver wall, and small oval proofs on assorted metal parts. Matching serial numbers are observed on the left barrel shank, left receiver wall, and carrier/elevator. The 33-inch barrel and a 12.5-inch length of pull round out the configuration.