Original Item: Only One Available. The first Model Schmidt-Rubin rifle was designed and approved in 1889, with production running between 1891 and 1897 at Eidgenoessische Waffenfabrik (Swiss Arms Factory), Bern, with a total production of about 212,000. This means that all model 1889 Schmidt Rubin rifles are pre-1899, and considered antique under Federal Law. As this is rifle serial number 127713, we estimate this rifle was produced in 1893-1894.

This rifle has had a somewhat interesting history compared to most, as it was converted to a .22LR short training rifle around 1911. As it was a model 1889, it was considered obsolete at that time compared to the later versions with the improved placement of the bolt locking lugs. The rifle was shortened by 7 inches in total from the muzzle end, and the stock re-profiled, which also included adding a Model 1911 style pistol grip. It is clearly a separate piece of wood, and on the underside of the fore stock the filled channel for the band spring can also be seen. The bolt was modified to be for a .22 rimfire, and the original magazine cut down with a new floor plate added. The original front and rear sights look to have been replaced as well

This example is in very good condition, with a great look, and only moderate signs of age and use. Serial number 127713 is present on the receiver and bolt of the rifle, while shortened serial number 713 is marked on the butt plate. Some parts, such as barrel bands, do not usually have serial number markings. There are multiple Swiss Cross proof marks on the metal components of a gun, which are in very good condition, with most of the original finish present. There is some oxidation and wear on the magazine and trigger guard, but nothing major. The bolt is still bright steel, with some light staining, especially on the handle, which looks to have seen minor moisture exposure. The red fiber bolt handle is cracked, with chunks missing from both the top and the bottom.

The rifle cycles securely, with a very satisfying "clunk-click", and a crisp dry fire. The magazine cutoff/release lever works correctly as well. The magazine itself looks functional, though we have no way to test the feed system. The bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish showing crisp lands and grooves, showing little to no signs of use. The stock does have some small dents, chips, scratches from storage, but it is still quite attractive and a lovely light amber color. It also has a bitt of tiger "flamed" figuring in the lower butt stock, which really pops in the light. There are multiple Swiss proof marks on the spine of the rear stock near the butt plate. The rear sight is fully functional, and both sling swivels are present and move freely.

Overall this is a very attractive and interesting example of a rare First Model Schmidt-Rubin rifle that was converted to .22LR for training use. We have never had one of these before! Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Years of Manufacture: 1891-1897 - converted c. 1911
Caliber: .22LR
Cartridge Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 23 inches
Overall Length: 44 Inches
Action type: Straight-pull Bolt-Action
Feed System: 12 Round Box Magazine with Cutoff

More on the Model 1889 Schmidt-Rubin

The Model 1889 was the first in the series of Schmidt–Rubin rifles, which served Switzerland from 1889 to 1953. The rifle takes its name from the designer of its action, Colonel Rudolf Schmidt, and the designer of its ammunition, Colonel Eduard Rubin. The straight-pull bolt action allows the user to pull the bolt straight back to unlock the action and eject the spent cartridge in one motion, and push the bolt forward to chamber a round, cock the striker, and lock the action. This is as opposed to a traditional bolt action, wherein the user must lift the bolt handle to unlock the action before pulling the bolt back.

The rifle is roughly musket length, with a free-floating barrel, 12-round magazine and wood stock that extends almost to the tip of the barrel. The Schmidt–Rubin 1889 was an advanced weapon for its time, and was one of the first rifles to use copper-jacketed ammunition as its standard ammunition. The GP90 7.5×53.5mm round designed by Col. Rubin in 1882 was revolutionary in that most of the bullets used in Europe at the time, except for the Mle 1886 Lebel rifle metal-jacketed 8mm bullet, were around .45 inches as opposed to the .308 inches of the Schmidt–Rubin ammunition. Strangely enough, the round was "paper patched" meaning that the bullet was surrounded by a piece of paper, much like the cotton patches placed around a musket ball. Paper patching the round was supposed to aid in the lubrication of the bullet.