Original Item: One one Available. In 1886 ALFRED VON KROPATSCHEK designed an 8mm rimmed cartridge rifle that became the fore runner to the French LEBEL. Known as the 1886 Kropatschek Rifle it's big customer was PORTUGAL. Production lasted from 1886 until 1898, however many saw service in the First World War and later in the Spanish Civil War of the 1930's. Kropatschek's rifles used a tubular magazine (constructed of nickel-plated steel) of his design, of the same type used in the German Mauser Gewehr 1871/84 and the Japanese Type 22 Murata. While designed for black powder, the Kropatschek action proved to be strong enough to handle smokeless powder.

Our example is a very good condition long rifle version, officially designated the Espingarda de Infantaria 8 mm m/1886: 8 mm Infantry Rifle, and unlike most rifles we have had, still retains the original rare bayonet! It is fitted with a 32.3" barrel and a full length 8 round tube magazine under the barrel. Ours is marked on the receiver with M.1886 and :- Œ.W.F.G. STEYR / 1886 for Österreichische Waffenfabriksgesellschaft, (ŒWG, Austrian Arms-Manufacturing Company), also commonly referred to as Steyr Werke. Steyr is an Austrian City just outside Vienna and at the time was the home of the entire Austrian arms production. They made Kropatschek rifles under contract for shipment to Portugal.

Serial number C502 is marked on the barrel, receiver, and all components of the bold, with the same number marked on the left side of the butt stock. That makes this a very nice "ALL MATCHING" example, one of the few that we have had over the years! These were in service for a long period of time, so they almost always have had some parts swapped out over the years. The receiver bears Portuguese Crown over L.I., for King LUIS 1st who reigned 1838 until 1889. These also were made with cartouches on both sides of the butt stock, however they have been worn away on this example.

Offered in very good condition, the rifle still has both sling swivels and original side mounted cleaning rod present. Bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish and crisp lands and grooves. There is just a small bit of wear and some very light oxidation near the muzzle. The rifle cycles correctly, though it is a bit stiff, and the magazine cutoff functions as designed. The safety is functional as well, and the rear sight is fully functional and complete.

The exterior condition is consistent with long service, and does not look to have seen a major arsenal reconditioning during service, though the butt stock may have been resurfaced to remove the cartouches. It has a lovely chestnut brown color, showing light staining near the metal fittings due to oxidation. The metalwork still retains the blued finish quite well on the receiver, with other components faded a bit. We do not see any sign that it was ever fitted with a top handguard for colonial service.

Hard to find in this original condition, especially with such a great bore! Ready to display!

Specifications (Rifle):-

Years of Manufacture: 1886
Caliber: Portuguese 8×60mmR
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 32.3 inches
Overall Length: 52 Inches
Action type: Bolt Action
Feed System: 8 Round Tube Magazine w/ Cutoff

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.