France, 1st World War. - Lot 225

France, 1st World War. Winchester saddle rifle, model 1894, "AF" (Armée Française). Cal 30 WCF (30 x 30 winchester). Serial no. 672767 corresponding to a 1913 manufacture. All metal parts in their original bronze finish, the breechcase blazed and brightened. It features a metre-scale rear sight and side grenadière rings, specific to the French army model. The breech tail is marked "MODEL 1894 - WINCHESTER - TRADE MARK REG. IN. U.S. PAT. OFF", all markings are present. Varnished walnut stock. Functional mechanism, inside barrel clean with good scratches. Comes with a French regulation tan leather sling. 97 cm (barrel 51 cm). (Minor wear, minor handling marks on the wood, good condition). Note: These rifles were originally ordered by Belgium from the USA, for use by its colonial troops in the Congo. Subsequently, the contract was diverted to France, which acquired around 15,000 of these rifles for use by the "Train". Eventually, they were used by the artillery, navy, train, quartermaster and balloonists during the 1st World War. Classified as category "C" under decree no. 2023-557 of July 3, 2023, and subject to declaration. The purchaser MUST present his identity card and valid hunting license or shooting license + consultation of the FINIADA file.