Adventures in Surplus: Early Battle-Worn Berthier 1907-15

Published on April 29, 2021
Duration: 15:12

This video provides an expert-level examination of a battle-worn Berthier 1907-15 rifle, detailing its WWI history through various markings and modifications. Ian McCollum, a recognized firearms expert, explains the rifle's development, colonial use, and its role as a substitute standard infantry arm. The analysis covers production details, arsenal markings, German capture stamps, and evidence of depot-level repairs, offering deep insights into French military logistics and firearm evolution during the Great War.

Quick Summary

The Berthier 1907-15 is a French bolt-action rifle adopted during WWI as a substitute standard infantry arm. Markings like stock cartouches and receiver stamps reveal its production arsenal, date, and service history. A renumbered bolt indicates depot-level repair, while German capture stamps show it was taken by enemy forces. Manufrance produced barrels marked 'MF' due to high wartime demand.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Berthier 1907-15
  2. 00:50Berthier Development & Colonial Use
  3. 01:46WWI & 1907-15 Model Production
  4. 03:18Early Production Features & Markings
  5. 04:32Bent Bolt Handle & Repairs
  6. 06:58German Capture & Modification
  7. 09:21Manufrance Barrel Production
  8. 11:47Stock Notches & Post-War History

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Berthier 1907-15 rifle?

The Berthier 1907-15 is a French bolt-action rifle adopted during World War I as a substitute standard infantry arm. It evolved from earlier Berthier carbine designs and was produced by arsenals like St. Etienne and Chatellerault, as well as commercial firms like Manufrance.

What do the markings on a Berthier 1907-15 indicate?

Markings on a Berthier 1907-15, such as stock cartouches ('MA', '1915'), receiver stamps ('St Etienne Mle 1907-15'), and serial numbers, reveal its production arsenal, date, and service history. German capture stamps ('Deutsches Reich') indicate it was taken by enemy forces.

Why was the bolt handle on some Berthier 1907-15 rifles renumbered?

A renumbered bolt on a Berthier 1907-15 typically signifies a depot-level repair. If a bolt was damaged or lost, it would be replaced with a salvaged part and then stamped with the receiver's serial number to maintain proper identification and function.

What does the 'MF' logo on a Berthier 1907-15 barrel signify?

The 'MF' logo within a circle on a Berthier 1907-15 barrel indicates that the barrel was manufactured by Manufrance, a commercial arms company. This occurred due to high wartime demand, with the French government contracting private firms to supplement arsenal production.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →