Ethiopian Oddities - Single Shot French Mle 1878 Marine

Published on September 9, 2021
Duration: 5:24

This review details a modified French Mle 1878 Marine Kropatschek rifle, originally a black powder bolt-action with a tube magazine, manufactured by Steyr in 1879. The specific example was converted to single-shot in Ethiopia, featuring a disabled magazine system and a non-standard rear sight. Such modifications were likely due to damage and parts scarcity, with few of these Marine models identified.

Quick Summary

The French Mle 1878 Marine Kropatschek was a rare, transitional black powder bolt-action rifle made by Steyr in 1879. This example was modified in Ethiopia to be single-shot, disabling its tube magazine and featuring a non-standard rear sight, likely due to parts scarcity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Ethiopian Oddities & Mle 1878 Marine
  2. 00:24Rifle Overview: Mle 1878 Marine History & Specs
  3. 01:17Markings & Serial Numbers: Steyr Manufacture
  4. 02:00Mechanical Modifications: Single-Shot Conversion
  5. 02:42Sights & Fittings: Non-Standard Parts
  6. 04:14Conclusion: Rarity & Ethiopian Imports

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the French Mle 1878 Marine Kropatschek rifle?

The French Mle 1878 Marine Kropatschek was a rare, transitional black powder bolt-action rifle featuring a tube magazine and chambered in 11mm Gras. This specific example was manufactured by Steyr in Austria for the French Navy.

How was the French Mle 1878 Marine rifle modified in Ethiopia?

In Ethiopia, this rifle was converted to a single-shot configuration. The modifications involved disabling the original tube magazine and cartridge lifter mechanism, likely due to damage and parts scarcity.

What were some of the specific modifications made to the Mle 1878 Marine rifle?

Key modifications included converting it to single-shot, fitting a Gras-style stock that blocked the magazine tube, and replacing the rear sight with a crude attachment from an 1895 Steyr-Mannlicher rifle.

How rare are the French Mle 1878 Marine Kropatschek rifles?

These specific Marine models are quite rare. Only about half a dozen of these particular rifles have been identified among the firearms imported from Ethiopia.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →