We just received a small quantity of Ethiopian modified Italian Vetterli Model 1870/87 rifles. All rifles are chambered in the 10.4x47mmR cartridge. This particular batch of Vetterli rifles were cut down by the Ethiopian forces during their use. The barrels are usually shortened about 5-12 inches. The modification from a rifle to a carbine length is a process seen throughout a variety of firearms used in Ethiopia, such as with the French Lebel rifles shortened about 6-10 inches, Berthier 1907-15 rifles shortened to a carbine length, and the same process done to 1891 Carcano rifles, FN Mausers, and more. The actions remain completely unmodified besides the shortened barrel and stock. May be missing a small part such as a sling swivel, but are generally all complete. These rifles are an interesting look into a little known practice with Ethiopian rifles. The rifles do not come with a cleaning rod. Don’t miss this chance to get a unique rifle!
These Vetterlis are in fair to good overall condition. You may see some cracks in the stock and finish wear as they are over 130 years old and have endured a long service life. Hand select rifles are generally good condition, best available out of the lot. These rifles have been in storage in Ethiopia for about century.
We offer a hand select option for overall condition.
These rifles are ANTIQUES, NO FFL REQUIRED. Photo ID required. These rifles can be shipped directly to a business or home address.
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5 reviews for Ethiopian “Cut-Down” Vetterli Model 1870/87 Caliber 10.4x47mmR
Rob –
I ordered the cut down version of the 1870/87 vetterli. It showed up in complete and serviceable condition with a great bore, not bad at all and better than described. Except for the fact that after a close inspection, I discovered that it had the wrong bolt. It had the 1870/87/15 version that had been converted into 6.5. I called customer service right away, within an hour I had a return label emailed to me, and the correct one just showed up in good working condition. I’m not sure how the bolts got switched, an Ethiopian soldier could have done it 100 years ago, who knows, but RTI handled it quickly and properly. The gun is complete and fully functional. They deserve an A on this one.
Christopher Jackson –
My cut down was one of the early Vitali magazine conversions that has two lugs instead of the plate on the bottom of the stock. The bayonet lug brazed back onto the rifle at the five O’clock position, though it will not take my bayonet, the muzzle ring won’t fit. I suspect that barrel diameter is thicker further back. It is 100% functional and intact, minus the cleaning rod which it present but damaged. No pitting at all, just light dirt and some rust on the bolt. It is AOI marked. I’m incredibly pleased with this purchase. I did not pay for hand select either.
Robert –
Better than expected!! All complete except cleaning rod , which I knew was not nesc. Included. I did do extra $100.00. and glad I did!!
Rifle is in very good condition, with a shootable bore just needs a good cleaning.
Wood stock is better than expected also.
Came well packed with bubble wrap and cardboard.
Was hesitant to order as there was only 5 in stock! But turned out 100 percent satisfied with my purchase.!!
Christopher –
I was pleasantly surprised when I received my Ethiopian cut-down Vetterli-Vitali M1870/87 today. Inasmuch as it was one of only two left when I ordered it I expected it to be “bottom of the barrel” so to speak. It is in very nice condition with the bore being excellent! One very happy customer here!
CharleneOstrowski (verified owner) –
For what it is, I have to leave a great rating. While coated with surface rust, and some wire-wheeling near numbers, it’s actually in decent shape. Stock is solid, only issue being a nail as the through pin on front band. Action cycles very smoothly, though I needed to make a firing pin spring for it. An improvised repair was inside, and working, but kinda intermittent. Handyman Springs SP 9713 cut in half, works great. Bore was good, and only needed some squaring up, of the cut muzzle.