French St. Etienne MLE 1886 M93 8mm Lebel Bolt Action Rifle, 1889 Antique
SOLD FOR: $2625
LSB#: 210909DW25
Make: St. Etienne
Model: MLE 1886/M93
Serial Number: 14809
Year of Manufacture: 1889
Caliber: 8mm Lebel
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle
Markings: The left side of the barrel boss is marked with “PG”, an encircled “R” and “F” and the serial number, “14809”. The right side of the barrel boss is marked “MA S 1889”. The left side of the receiver is marked “MANUFACTURE D’ARMES / St. Etienne” and “MLE 1886 M 93”. Most of the rifle is serial matching with the left side of the buttstock, the underside of the receiver, and the underside of the forend wood marked “14809”. The bolt, however, is non-matching, marked “3344”.
Barrel Length: 32”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a thick blade set atop a small base dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a square notched sliding escalator when down. The left side of the sight base is marked “2 4 6 8 10”. When up it becomes a sliding sight ladder.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth wood with forend cap/bayonet mount (no bayonet is included), finger-grooved forend, through bolt, straight grip, straight comb, and metal buttplate. Edges of the forend have intermittent light nicks, dings, and one more notable loss on the left side near to the receiver. The forend wood has scattered light nicks, dings, and compressions throughout, most of which have been oiled over. The comb has a few moderate dings along with intermittent compressions. The buttstock has light nicks, dings, and scuffs throughout. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4” inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has gone to white and has light nicks and dings throughout. Overall, the stock rates in Good-to-Very Good condition, as antique.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is rather dark with visible rifling. There appears to be light erosion and moderate stubborn fouling throughout.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. All metal surfaces have begun the transition to a dark patina. The edges of the receiver and the barrel bands have light thinning on the edges. The receiver has light pitting from surface erosion throughout along with intermittent minor nicks and a few minor dings. The barrel has scattered light nicks along the top. Screws are lightly tool marked with strong slots. Markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Good-to-Very Good condition, as antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is an MLE 1886 that was modified into the M93. The modification consisted of a new bolt head designed to redirect dangerous gasses escaping from ruptured cases. This example does show its age with wear on the stock, and most of its finish. The bore is quite worn. Good luck and happy bidding!