Swiss Mannlicher 1893 Carbine 21.65” 7.5×53.5 Straight Pull Bolt Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,375.00
LSB#: WY241115KN031
Make: Waffenfabrik Bern
Model: 1893 Mannlicher Carbine
Serial Number: 4700
Year of Manufacture: 1896-1905
Caliber: 7.5×53.5mm Swiss (GP90)
Action Type: Straight pull bolt action, 6 round detachable magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked, “4700”. All serialized parts are matched. There are various Swiss proofs throughout. The stock is marked with a “3”
Barrel Length: 21.65”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed blade with protective wings, the rear sight is a V-notch Escalator sight marked out to 12.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece Mannlicher wood set with a capped forend, barrel band w/ sling loop, straight wrist, straight comb, sling well, and steel buttplate. There are light scratches and handling marks throughout. There are cracks at the heel and at the buttplate. There are no chips. The LOP measures 12 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition as refinished.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x Detachable 6 round magazine in Good Condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is deep. There is moderate erosion and light small spots of pitting throughout. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 6/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads show signs of light use. The markings are mostly crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One mag.
Our Assessment: The Swiss Mannlicher 1893 Carbine is a fascinating piece of firearms history, showcasing innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship from the late 19th century. Chambered in 7.5×53.5mm Swiss and featuring a 21.65-inch barrel, this straight-pull bolt-action rifle was ahead of its time, offering faster cycling compared to traditional turn-bolt designs. Its compact size and light weight made it ideal for mounted troops and other applications requiring maneuverability without sacrificing power or accuracy. The 7.5×53.5mm cartridge is an early iteration of the Swiss military round, known for its reliable ballistics and performance. Combined with the straight-pull bolt mechanism, this carbine delivers smooth, rapid operation, allowing for quick follow-up shots—a significant advantage in the era of black powder and early smokeless powder rifles. The craftsmanship of the Mannlicher 1893 is evident in its robust construction and precise machining, hallmarks of Swiss firearm manufacturing.
For collectors, the Mannlicher 1893 Carbine holds tremendous historical value as a transitional design that paved the way for future straight-pull rifles, such as the iconic Schmidt-Rubin series. Its unique blend of history, innovation, and functionality makes it a standout piece for enthusiasts of military firearms. Whether admired for its engineering or appreciated as a tangible link to late 19th-century military history, this carbine is a testament to Swiss ingenuity and the evolution of rifle design. It’s a must-have for those seeking a historically significant and mechanically intriguing addition to their collection. -R.E.
