Italian M91/38 Cavalry Carbine……… (F 1278)

1891 pattern Manlicher-Carcano Cavalry Carbine

A remarkably long serving weapon first adopted by the Italian Forces in June 1893.  At first it was chambered in the Italian 6.5mm cartridge, but then as the realisation that it was not up to the job became clear, the caliber was increased to 7.35mm in 1938.  Some of these little carbines remained in 6.5 mm and some were changed. 1938 saw the introduction of freshly manufactured examples.

A very basic bolt action which is fed by a six shot Mannlicher clip.  The carbine is 36″ long and the round steel barrel, a nominal 17.1/2″.  Trigger Pull to center is 12.1/2″.  The folding steel spike bayonet adds another 13.1/4″ to its length. When folded away the bayonet stores neatly under the fore-end in a specially made grove.

The blued action contrasts with the grey metal bolt, with turndown bolt handle.  A simple “plate” acts as a safety at the rear of the bolt.  The classic silhouette with the extended trigger guard encompassing the magazine is directly below the bolt. The weapon is half stocked leaving 9.3/8″ of round exposed barrel.  Steel shaped butt-plate with sprung cleaning trap containing the two rods required to clean the weapon.  Very basic fixed sights mounted in front of the action, clearly marked “CAL.7.35” on the upper surface.

The breech portion of the barrel which is exposed behind the sights is marked with the makers name and date of production.  The serial number is also visible at that point; “D5739.”  Directly below is faint double anchor marking which just could be the marking for Marine Forces (Don’t quote me on that one – heard about it, never seen it!) On the crest of the barrel, arranged longitudinally, is “GARDONE V T” (looks like V.D!) for Gardone Val Trompia. There is a crown with the initials R.E underneath translating Regio Ersicto (Royal Army)  adjacent to the makers name.  The date is seen as “939  XVII”  The Roman Numerals represent the number of years the Fascist government of Italy had been in power.

To further guard against confusion and damage to both soldier and equipment, the caliber is repeated on the LHS of the butt stock, adjacent to the side mounted rear sling swivel.  The matching serial number is also repeated alongside the steel butt plate.  The original roundel cartouche of the manufacturer has faded away just before the side sling cut-out and another boxed cartouche has appeared over it reading “DAV”. The stock is in good order and has taken on the dark tone of aged walnut.  The handguard looks to have been added at a later date as it is much lighter in colour, and does stand out. (This could be matched in)

In apparent contradiction to the external condition, the bore condition is excellent. Clean, clear and bright with defined lands, no obvious corrosion.  Looks to be little used. Nitro proofed on top of exposed portion of barrel.  Bayonet catch fully functioning and holds firmly in both positions.

A good collectors piece which would benifit from the new owners attention just to tidy it up.  Would be at home in any Military Rifle collection, just as it would out on the range.

FAC Required – Stock Number F 1278

£ 575.

 

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