Swiss 1897 Schmidt-Rubin Kadettengewehr Training Rifle

Published on March 25, 2018
Duration: 7:38

The Swiss 1897 Kadettengewehr is a single-shot training rifle based on the Schmidt-Rubin 1889/96 action. It features a unique dual-calibrated rear sight designed for both standard GP90 and reduced cadet loads, matching ballistics to ensure the cadet load at the muzzle equals the standard load at 100 meters. This rifle served the Swiss Cadet Corps from its production in 1898 until the early 1950s.

Quick Summary

The Swiss 1897 Kadettengewehr is a single-shot training rifle based on the Schmidt-Rubin 1889/96 action. Its rear sight is uniquely dual-calibrated for standard GP90 and reduced cadet loads, matching ballistics so the cadet load at the muzzle equals the standard load at 100 meters.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 1897 Kadettengewehr
  2. 00:30Historical Context and Development
  3. 01:43The Swiss Cadet Corps
  4. 02:27Mechanical Overview
  5. 02:57Bolt Design Evolution
  6. 03:27Dual-Calibrated Sights Explained
  7. 05:37Markings and Features
  8. 06:40Production and Service Life

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Swiss 1897 Kadettengewehr?

The Swiss 1897 Kadettengewehr is a single-shot, straight-pull bolt-action training rifle developed for the Swiss Cadet Corps. It is based on the Schmidt-Rubin 1889/96 action and was produced from 1898 to 1927.

What is unique about the sights on the 1897 Kadettengewehr?

The rear sight features dual calibration for two different ammunition loads: the standard GP90 military round and a reduced-power cadet load. The ballistics are matched so the cadet load at the muzzle has the same trajectory as the standard load at 100 meters.

What was the purpose of the 1897 Kadettengewehr?

This rifle served as a modern training tool for pre-military teenagers in the Swiss Cadet Corps. It provided a simpler, single-shot straight-pull bolt action alternative to previous single-shot Vetterli rifles.

How did the bolt design of the 1897 Kadettengewehr evolve?

It uses the 1896-pattern bolt with mid-mounted locking lugs, which was an improvement in strength over the 1889 model's rear lugs. However, it is less advanced than the front-locking system found in later models like the K31.

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