Ethiopian M90/95 Hybrid Mannlicher Carbine

Published on September 15, 2020
Duration: 10:57

This expert-level entry details the Ethiopian M90/95 Hybrid Mannlicher Carbine, drawing on Ian McCollum's analysis from Forgotten Weapons. It highlights the unique blend of M1890 and M1895 features, its Austro-Hungarian origins, and its journey through Italy to Ethiopian service, marked by 'AOI' stamps. The entry emphasizes the carbine's historical significance as a preserved hybrid configuration, likely chambered in 8x50mm Mannlicher.

Quick Summary

The Ethiopian M90/95 Hybrid Mannlicher Carbine is a unique firearm blending M1890 and M1895 components, imported from Ethiopia. It features an M1890 tangent sight graduated in 'schritt', an M1895 nose cap, and an 'AOI' stamp indicating service in Italian East Africa. Likely chambered in 8x50mm Mannlicher, it represents a preserved historical configuration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Provenance
  2. 01:30Markings & Manufacture
  3. 02:29M1890 Rear Sight
  4. 03:22M1895 Hybrid Features
  5. 04:01Mechanical Evolution
  6. 05:44Furniture & Stock
  7. 07:16Italian AOI Markings
  8. 07:55Caliber & Ammunition
  9. 08:45Ethiopian Imports as Time Capsules

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Ethiopian M90/95 Hybrid Mannlicher Carbine unique?

Its uniqueness stems from being a hybrid firearm, blending components from both the M1890 and M1895 Mannlicher carbines. Imported from Ethiopia, it preserves configurations often modified or lost in Europe, featuring specific markings like 'AOI' and archaic sights.

What are the key visual differences between the M1890 and M1895 Mannlicher carbine components seen on this hybrid?

The hybrid exhibits an M1890 tangent rear sight but features an M1895 pattern nose cap with a bottom bayonet lug, differing from the M1890's side-mounted lugs. The stock and cocking piece also show M1895 characteristics.

What is the significance of the 'AOI' stamp on the carbine's stock?

The 'AOI' stamp signifies 'Africa Orientale Italiana' (Italian East Africa). Its presence indicates the carbine was used by native troops under Italian command during the occupation of Ethiopia in the 1930s, adding significant historical context.

What caliber is the Ethiopian M90/95 Hybrid Mannlicher Carbine likely chambered in?

The carbine is most likely chambered in the original 8x50mm Mannlicher caliber. It likely missed the later Austrian conversion to 8x56mm because it was already outside of Austria by that time.

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