Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle

Published on August 19, 2015
Duration: 7:35

This guide details the disassembly and reassembly of the Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle's bolt, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers operating the safety, using the bolt stop lever, and inspecting the unique rotating shark-fin lugs. The video highlights the rifle's experimental nature and its place in military trials history.

Quick Summary

The Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle was an experimental firearm developed for Belgian military trials in 1888. It featured a unique bolt action with a top-mounted handle, rotating shark-fin lugs, and a Mannlicher-style en-bloc clip system. Though it lost to the 1889 Mauser, it represents an interesting development in early smokeless powder military rifle design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 01:21External Features and Magazine System
  3. 02:51Safety and Bolt Operation
  4. 04:03Bolt Mechanics and Locking Lugs
  5. 05:46Receiver Markings and Military Fittings
  6. 07:04Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle used for?

The Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle was a competitor in the Belgian army trials held in 1888 for a new standard issue small-bore, smokeless powder repeating rifle. It ultimately lost out to the 1889 Mauser design.

What is unique about the Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle's bolt action?

The Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle features a bolt action with a top-mounted handle and distinctive rotating 'shark fin' shaped locking lugs. It also incorporates a striker indicator and a thumb safety at the rear of the receiver.

How did the Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle feed ammunition?

This rifle utilized a Mannlicher-style en-bloc clip system. Cartridges were loaded into the rifle via these clips, and the empty clip would fall out of the bottom of the magazine well after the last round was chambered.

Who manufactured the Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle?

The Liegeoise 1888 Trials Rifle was manufactured by the Manufacture Liegeoise d'Armes à Feu, based on the 'Systeme Engh Brevete' design.

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