The Fakiest Fake Berthier I Have Seen All Day

Published on April 20, 2020
Duration: 7:40

This video exposes a highly deceptive fake Berthier rifle sold on GunBroker. The presenter details how various mismatched parts from different firearms, including a Mauser handguard and Steyr M95 nose cap and bayonet, were crudely assembled. The rifle's stock failed catastrophically under recoil due to improper fitting, highlighting the dangers of fraudulent firearm sales and the importance of expert knowledge and reference materials.

Quick Summary

This Berthier rifle was a dangerous fake, assembled from mismatched parts including a Mauser handguard and Steyr M95 nose cap/bayonet. The stock, lacking proper recoil lugs, split catastrophically under recoil, highlighting the risks of fraudulent firearm sales and the need for expert verification.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Fake Berthier Rifle & Sponsor
  2. 00:33The Prevalence of Fake Firearms
  3. 01:14Initial Red Flags: Title & Clearing Rod
  4. 01:54Action and Stock Analysis: Ill-fitting Parts
  5. 02:49Identifying Mismatched Parts: Mauser Handguard
  6. 03:40Nose Cap and Bayonet Modifications: Steyr M95 Parts
  7. 04:50Muzzle and Cleaning Rod Issues
  8. 05:42Structural Failure: Stock Split Under Recoil
  9. 06:33Conclusion: Dangerous Fraud & Reference Importance

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main red flags indicating the Berthier rifle was fake?

The listing title combining 'Berthier M16' and 'Lebel' was a major red flag. Visually, the presence of a clearing rod, an incorrect stock contour, and exposed magazine well parts also suggested it was not an authentic Berthier.

What specific mismatched parts were found on the fake Berthier rifle?

The fake rifle was assembled from various parts, including a handguard from an Argentine 1891 Mauser, and a nose cap and bayonet from an Austrian Steyr M95. The bayonet was modified with a copper ring to fit the Berthier barrel.

Why did the stock of the fake Berthier rifle fail?

The stock, likely from a Mauser variant, lacked the necessary recoil lugs required for the Berthier action. This improper fitting caused the stock to split and shatter catastrophically under recoil when the rifle was fired.

How can collectors avoid buying fake firearms like this Berthier?

Collectors should use critical assessment, research, and consult reputable reference books like 'Chassepot to FAMAS' or 'Thorneycroft to SA80' to verify authenticity. Be wary of suspicious listing titles and mismatched parts.

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