Enjoying Black Powder Episode 9: 1869 Swiss Vetterli

Published on March 15, 2025
Duration: 13:38

This guide details the technique for performing a speed test on the 1869 Swiss Vetterli rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum and Tom on Forgotten Weapons. It covers loading, firing, and timing the sequence, highlighting the rifle's unique action and potential challenges with fouling. The expert instruction emphasizes safe handling and understanding the firearm's operational characteristics.

Quick Summary

The 1869 Swiss Vetterli rifle, originally in .41 Rimfire, was an advanced repeating firearm for its time, holding up to 13 rounds. Many were converted to centerfire using 8mm Lebel brass, requiring flat-pointed bullets to prevent chain-fires in the tube magazine. Its vertical elevator action could be prone to fouling during rapid fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to the Swiss Vetterli
  2. 00:24Vetterli Capacity
  3. 00:33Swiss Magazine Rifle Adoption
  4. 01:16Caliber Choice: .41 Rimfire
  5. 01:31Hybrid Design
  6. 01:51Rimfire to Centerfire Conversion
  7. 02:40First Shooting Experience
  8. 02:56Loading and Action Mechanism
  9. 04:30Firing Demonstration (Tom)
  10. 04:47Loading and Firing Demonstration (Ian)
  11. 06:33.41 Swiss Cartridge Characteristics
  12. 06:54Historical Context: Surplus and Finland
  13. 09:07Aesthetic Appreciation
  14. 09:37Speed Test Preparation
  15. 09:44Speed Test Execution
  16. 11:58Firepower Advantage
  17. 12:31YouTube Content Restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the 1869 Swiss Vetterli rifle?

The 1869 Swiss Vetterli rifle typically holds up to 13 rounds: 11 in the tube magazine, 1 in the vertical elevator, and potentially 1 in the chamber. This provided significant firepower for its era.

What caliber does the 1869 Swiss Vetterli use, and are there common modifications?

Originally chambered in .41 Rimfire, many Swiss Vetterli rifles were converted to centerfire. Ammunition for these conversions is often made from 8mm Lebel brass and requires flat-pointed bullets for safe use in the tube magazine.

Why are flat-pointed bullets important for the Swiss Vetterli?

Flat-pointed bullets are crucial for tubular magazines like the one on the Swiss Vetterli. They prevent the bullet tip from striking the primer of the cartridge ahead, which could cause a dangerous chain-fire.

What are the historical implications of the Swiss Vetterli's design?

The Swiss Vetterli was an early adoption of a repeating rifle, influenced by designs like the Henry and Winchester 1866. Its 12-round capacity in 1869 was advanced, and many surplus rifles later found their way to the US.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →