Italian Army Beretta Olimpia .22 LR Bolt Action Semi-Auto Rifle C&R 1950’s
SOLD FOR: $701
WOA#: WY240223WT013
Make: Beretta, PW Arms Import
Model: Olimpia
Serial Number: C22723
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1950’s (PS Proof) Military Training Rifle for Italian Army
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Bolt Action, Semi-Auto, Mag-Fed
Markings: The right side of the barrel shank is marked “PW ARMS REDMOND, WA / MOD. OLIMPIA”. The left side of the barrel shank is marked “C / 22723”. The left side of the barrel is marked “PS” with a wreath proof. The left side of the stock has a PS Cartouche.
Barrel Length: 20.5”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to a serrated ramp screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable u notch sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the barrel shank is grooved for scope mount options. The top of the barrel has been drilled, tapped, and mounted with a scope rail. The rail is mounted with a Burris Handgun 3-12×32 Scope. The sight picture is clear with Modern Rangefinding Reticle.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one piece walnut with checkered round semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling swivel, serrated Beretta buttplate and forend with inlet accessory rail mounted with a Harris SBR2 Adjustable Bipod. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock rates in Good condition. There are no chips or cracks. There are scattered scratches, nicks, compression marks, scrapes, and dings.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One original 10rd magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its finish. There is thinning on the edges. The barrel and receiver have freckled rust. There is some finish loss on the edge of the bolt handle. There is some rust on the sling ring. The screw heads have tool marks with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Good condition as C&R.
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, and Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Italian Army Beretta Olimpia .22 LR Training Rifle, designed in the late 1950s, stands as a hallmark of Italian precision engineering and military training craftsmanship. This rifle was specifically crafted to provide Italian military recruits with a training tool that mimicked the feel and operation of full-sized service rifles, while utilizing the economical and low-recoil .22 LR cartridge. The Olimpia’s exceptional accuracy and manageable handling made it an ideal choice for sharpening marksmanship skills.
Featuring a sleek, robust design, the Olimpia includes a finely crafted wooden stock that fits comfortably against the shoulder, and a precision-machined steel barrel that ensures consistent accuracy. Its unique Bolt-Action/Semi-Auto mechanism is both smooth and reliable, reflecting Beretta’s commitment to quality and durability. This rifle not only served in the training fields but also became a favorite among civilian shooters for small game hunting and sport shooting, thanks to its versatility and superior performance. For collectors and shooting enthusiasts, this Beretta Olimpia is a piece of military history that exemplifies traditional craftsmanship and enduring value. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
