Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine

Published on July 14, 2017
Duration: 12:51

The Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine offered a significant improvement over single-shot carbines by incorporating a Mannlicher-style clip-fed system, addressing the Lebel rifle's limitations for cavalry use. Despite its handy 17.8-inch barrel and 6.6-pound weight, original configurations are rare due to later conversions. Key features include a 3-round capacity, a unique stacking rod, and arsenal markings indicating production at Saint-Étienne or Châtellerault.

Quick Summary

The 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine adopted Ferdinand von Mannlicher's clip-feeding system, overcoming the Lebel rifle's tubular magazine limitations for cavalry use. It features a 17.8-inch barrel, weighs 6.6 lbs, and uses a 3-round clip. Original models are rare due to later conversions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Lebel Limitations & Berthier's Solution
  2. 01:18Berthier's Design: Mannlicher Clip System
  3. 02:57Production History & Comparison to Gras Carbine
  4. 03:53Sling Attachment Variations (Early vs. 1894 Pattern)
  5. 05:00Markings and Serial Number System
  6. 06:09Sights and Stacking Rod Function
  7. 07:37Magazine and 3-Round Clip System Explained
  8. 08:28Bolt, Safety Features, and Disassembly
  9. 10:57Technical Specs, Scarcity, and Conversions

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the 1890 Berthier Carbine suitable for French cavalry?

The 1890 Berthier Carbine addressed the limitations of the Lebel rifle's tubular magazine for carbine use. It adopted Ferdinand von Mannlicher's clip-feeding system, allowing for a repeating rifle with a more practical capacity and weight for cavalry soldiers.

What are the key technical specifications of the Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine?

The Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine features a 17.8-inch barrel, weighs approximately 6.6 pounds, and has an overall length of 37 inches. It is chambered in 8mm Lebel and typically uses a 3-round Mannlicher-style clip.

Why are original 1890 Berthier carbines considered rare?

Original 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbines are rare because many were later modified or converted into subsequent models, such as the 1892 or 1916 variants. These later versions often included features like bayonet lugs and larger capacity magazines.

What is the function of the rod under the barrel of the 1890 Berthier Carbine?

The rod located under the barrel of the 1890 Berthier Carbine is not a cleaning rod but a stacking rod. It serves the purpose of allowing multiple rifles to be stacked together and can also be used for clearing stuck cartridge cases from the action.

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