ITALIAN VETTERLI 1870 RIFLE for Sale
Browse italian vetterli 1870 rifle listings from verified sellers across the U.S. on GunsAmerica.
Quick Look
The Italian Vetterli 1870 rifle was adopted by the Royal Italian Army in the late 19th century, marking Italy's transition to breech-loading military arms. Designed for durability and rapid reloading via bolt-action, it originally chambered a 10.4mm rimfire cartridge. Though long retired from service, the Vetterli 1870 remains a prized collectible for historic firearms enthusiasts and military arms collectors worldwide.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Historic military provenance from the Italian unification period
- Simple bolt-action design lends itself to durable construction
- Unique rimfire to centerfire conversion options for collectors
- Distinctive aesthetics with brass hardware and wood stock
- Sought after by black powder and vintage arms shooters
Key Variants
Vetterli 1870 Infantry Rifle
Standard infantry model with long barrel -- ideal for full-length historical display or collection.
Vetterli 1870/87 Rifle
Converted to centerfire and 6.5mm Carcano, these are firefight-era rifles with more practical ammo sourcing.
Vetterli Carbine
Shortened model issued to cavalry and special troops -- rare and collectible due to low production.
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | Vetterli 1870 | Mauser 1871 | Gras Model 1874 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Discontinued | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Caliber | 10.4mm Rimfire | 11mm Mauser | 11mm Gras |
| Weight | ~9.5 lbs | ~9.2 lbs | ~9.3 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No | No |
| Trigger Type | Single-stage | Single-stage | Single-stage |
| Notable Pro | Brass hardware and elegant finish | Widespread use across Europe | Strong black powder performance |
| Notable Con | Obsolete rimfire ammo is rare | Large caliber recoil | Limited servicing resources |
Best Use Cases
- Military history collection
- Antique rifle display
- Black powder shooting events
- Collector-grade trade and resale
FAQs
What is the caliber of the Italian Vetterli 1870?
The original Vetterli 1870 fired a 10.4x47mm rimfire cartridge, later upgraded to centerfire in variants.
Can I shoot a Vetterli 1870 with modern ammunition?
Not without gunsmith conversion. Modern ammo is incompatible with the original rimfire design.
How does the Vetterli 1870 compare to other 19th-century bolt-actions?
It was among the first bolt-actions adopted, predating the Mauser 1871 and showing refined craftsmanship.
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