MAS Mousqueton Modèle 1892 Carbine, 8x50mmR Lebel, 17.5 in Barrel, French 1894 Antique, Balle N Marked
This French-made MAS Mousqueton Modèle 1892 is an antique 8x50mmR Lebel carbine manufactured in 1894, featuring a 17.5 inch barrel and the later Balle N chamber modification. It retains its original carbine configuration with a full-length stock and military sights, and it is marked on the receiver ring with the N stamp. Clear Saint-Étienne and MAS model markings, period proof/acceptance stamps, and the compact 3-round en-bloc clip system make this a well-documented and collectible example.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal surfaces show scattered cosmetic wear, including scratches, minor blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The bore presents a bright appearance.
What's Included
- MAS Mousqueton Modèle 1892 carbine
Made in France, this Mousqueton Modèle 1892 is receiver-marked "St Etienne Mle 1892" in script, and the barrel shank/chamber is roll-stamped "M A S 1892," aligning with its 1894 production. Twin "N" stamps are present on the chamber and receiver ring, indicating the 1932 Balle N chamber/throat modification.
The carbine retains its correct military configuration: a full-length hardwood stock without a top handguard, a single barrel band with side sling ring, and a bottom butt swivel. A separate nosecap and a forward-projecting rod/stud-type lug under the muzzle accommodate the Mle 1892 sabre-bayonet interface.
Sighting is via a blade post front on a raised base and a tangent rear sight with a slider graduated to 800 meters. The bolt-action uses a downturned bolt handle with a visible cocking piece. Feeding is through an internal 3-round en-bloc clip system with a clip port integrated into the trigger guard.
Construction is all steel with a blued finish on the receiver and barrel. Inspection and proof details include multiple small proof stamps and an inspector/acceptance mark "JH." The stated length of pull is 13.0 inches. As an antique example chambered in 8x50mmR Lebel, this compact 17.5 inch-barreled mousqueton represents a classic French service carbine pattern with documented updates and markings.