Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this antique Swiss bolt-action rifle for a penny-start auction…this is the Waffenfabrik Bren / Vetterli Model 78!
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SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Waffenfabrik Bern / Vetterli
Model: Model 78
Serial: 164904
Caliber: Unknown (Known to be chambered in 10mm, 10.4mm, or .41 Swiss. We Suggest Having a Qualified Gunsmith Check the Caliber Before Firing.)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 33"
Optics/Sights: Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Hardwood Stock
Action: Bolt-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Vetterli rifle was a groundbreaking design developed in Switzerland for use by the Swiss Army, remaining in service from 1869 until it was phased out in 1889. It was eventually succeeded by the well-known Schmidt-Rubin series. Interestingly, the Vetterli’s influence extended beyond Switzerland; heavily modified versions were later adopted by the Italian Army and continued to see use through the First World War. What set the Vetterli apart from its contemporaries was its integration of a tubular magazine system—similar to the one found on the American Winchester Model 1866—with a more advanced bolt-action mechanism. Notably, it was among the first rifles to feature dual rear locking lugs, offering improved strength and reliability compared to earlier designs like the Dreyse and Chassepot rifles. It was also one of the first repeating bolt-action rifles to utilize a small-bore, intermediate cartridge and incorporate a cock-on-open action, placing it at the forefront of late 19th-century military firearms development.
Model: Model 78
Serial: 164904
Caliber: Unknown (Known to be chambered in 10mm, 10.4mm, or .41 Swiss. We Suggest Having a Qualified Gunsmith Check the Caliber Before Firing.)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 33"
Optics/Sights: Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Hardwood Stock
Action: Bolt-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Vetterli rifle was a groundbreaking design developed in Switzerland for use by the Swiss Army, remaining in service from 1869 until it was phased out in 1889. It was eventually succeeded by the well-known Schmidt-Rubin series. Interestingly, the Vetterli’s influence extended beyond Switzerland; heavily modified versions were later adopted by the Italian Army and continued to see use through the First World War. What set the Vetterli apart from its contemporaries was its integration of a tubular magazine system—similar to the one found on the American Winchester Model 1866—with a more advanced bolt-action mechanism. Notably, it was among the first rifles to feature dual rear locking lugs, offering improved strength and reliability compared to earlier designs like the Dreyse and Chassepot rifles. It was also one of the first repeating bolt-action rifles to utilize a small-bore, intermediate cartridge and incorporate a cock-on-open action, placing it at the forefront of late 19th-century military firearms development.
The decision to adopt a modern repeating rifle was made by the Swiss federal government in 1866, reflecting the growing need for a more efficient and reliable service rifle. At that time, the Vetterli was one of the most advanced firearms in Europe and replaced older models such as the Eidgenössischer Stutzer 1851, which had been adapted with the Amsler-Milbank conversion system. To meet increasing demand and ensure consistent production, the Swiss government established a new state-run armory in Bern in 1875, known as the Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik (Federal Arms Factory). One of its key contributions was the production of the Model 1878 Vetterli, which introduced several enhancements including upgraded iron sights, a redesigned trigger, a finger rest, and a new bayonet system with an integrated lug. These refinements reflected the continual effort to modernize and improve the Vetterli platform during its years of active service.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
