Caliber10.4x47mmRFFLAntique, No LicenseGradePoor-Fair

C Grade Vetterli Model 1870/87 Rifle Caliber 10.4x47mmR without rear sight

SKU: VETT0002-1-1

(4 customer reviews)

Original Italian Vetterli Model 1870/87 in 10.4x47mmR, stored in Ethiopia for the past century. The rear sight base has been removed, a modification likely done by cavalry units in Ethiopia. Poor to fair condition with surface corrosion, wood wear, and possible stock cracks; bores vary. Front sight blade may vary. Bolt may need further work to function fully. Sold as-is.

Low Stock

Original price was: $199.99.Current price is: $99.99.

3 in stock

Product Details

Caliber
10.4x47mmR10.35 VETTERLI · RIMMED
Country of Origin
ItalyMANUFACTURED 1870-1890
Era / Conflict
19th Century ServiceSERVICE LIFE 1870-1918
Action Type
Bolt ActionVETTERLI-VITALI M1870/87
Condition Grade
Poor-FairSOLD AS-IS · NO RETURNS
FFL Requirement
Antique, No LicensePHOTO ID ONLY · NO FFL / C&R
Feed System
Vitali Box Magazine4 ROUND · MAGAZINE-FED
Configuration
No Rear Sight BaseFIELD-MODIFIED · FRONT SIGHT MAY VARY

We just received a small quantity of original Italian Vetterli Model 1870/87 rifles. All rifles are chambered in the 10.4x47mmR cartridge.  These rifles do not have the rear sight base. These rifles may or may not come with a front sight blade. This modification was probably done by cavalry units in Ethiopia.

The condition is  poor to fair overall condition. These rifles have been in storage in Ethiopia for a century. They will have some surface corrosion, surface rust, wear on the metal and dings, dents, scratches, etc. in the wood. These rifles may have cracks in the stock and pitting. Stocks may be completely cracked through near the receiver and/or wrist. May be missing some parts such as a front and rear sight, sling swivel, barrel band, buttplate, etc. May have large chunks of wood missing. The rifles may or may not come with a cleaning rod. Bores range from poor to good. The rifle bolt may be difficult to open and require further work to be 100% functional. Please note that the sear spring may be broken and the bolt may not stay cocked.

Items are surplus firearms. Firearms are sold as is. No exchange nor refund!

These rifles are considered Antique and therefore do not require any Licenses. A government Photo ID like Drivers License or passport will be required to purchase these rifles, please upload at the checkout. Thanks for your business!

ANTIQUE – NO FFL OR C&R REQUIRED, Only Photo ID.

Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber does the Vetterli 1870/87 use?
This Vetterli is chambered in 10.4x47mmR, also known as 10.35 Vetterli. It is an obsolete black-powder-era cartridge available from specialty makers and handloaders.
Do I need an FFL to buy this rifle?
No. The Vetterli 1870/87 is classified as an Antique, so no FFL or C&R is required. A government photo ID such as a driver's license or passport must be uploaded at checkout.
Why is the rear sight base missing?
On these examples the rear sight base was removed, a field modification likely done by cavalry units in Ethiopia. A front sight blade may or may not be present.
Where was the Vetterli 1870/87 used?
It was the standard Italian service rifle of the late 19th century, the Vitali magazine-fed update of the earlier single-shot Vetterli. Many, including these, were later stored in Ethiopia for a century.
Is this Vetterli safe to shoot?
Any rifle over a century old should be inspected by a qualified gunsmith before firing. These are sold as-is antiques; bore, headspace, and mechanical condition must be verified by a professional before any live fire.
What condition are these rifles in?
Poor to fair, sold as-is. Expect surface corrosion, wood wear, and possible stock cracks with large chunks missing. Bores vary and the bolt may need work to function. The sear spring may be broken, so the bolt may not stay cocked.

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Item Reviews

What customers think of this item.

4 reviews for C Grade Vetterli Model 1870/87 Rifle Caliber 10.4x47mmR without rear sight

  1. t0r0scorpio (verified owner)

    Another broken stock! Missing one barrel band and of course no cleaning rod or rear sight assembly. on the other hand, the important parts were accounted for and in pretty good shape in spite of being encrusted in red oxide. For the price it’s not a bad project. I plan on actually repairing and refinishing the stock which was probably stitched together decades ago by some Ethiopian armorer.

  2. Matthew Rayner (verified owner)

    I bought two rifles. Both are 100% functional, and are “shooters.” much better condition than I expected. Stocks are both cracked and dry, but repairable (I hope). Metal is in the white with pitting, but not so horrible it’ll affect functionality (I believe.) If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, these are a great buy for $99.

  3. mreidlogan

    Mine was in excellent shape! Good lockup, all springs intact, only some small chips in the wood. I was prepared for worse!

  4. ANDREW BAGGETT (verified owner)

    Great bore, great rifling. Unfortunately a broken in half stock, but I am gonna Acraglas it back together after bleachng it to remove the oil and grime. All important parts included, and even got a front sight!

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