Remington Berthier Bolt Action Rifle in 8mm Label C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,075
WOA#: WY240213CS012
Make: Remington
Model: Berthier 1907-15
Serial Number:
Year of Manufacture: Post 1915
Caliber: 8mm Label
Action Type: Bolt Action, En-Bloc
Markings: This rifle has “REMINGTON MLE 1907-15 / RAC 1907-15”
Barrel Length: 32”
Sights / Optics: This rifle has a squared front sight on a riser and an adjustable U-notch rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a single piece wood stock with a straight grip and straight comb. The steel buttplate has a patina and the stock only shows light usage. Overall the stock rates at a Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is only a small patch of thinning on the front of the barrel. The receiver is lightly worn from use. Overall this rifle is in Excellent condition.
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: This rifle comes with the original leather sling.
Our Assessment: During World War I, France faced a significant shortage of rifles to equip its troops. To address this shortage, the French government contracted with various manufacturers, including Remington, to produce rifles based on the Berthier design. Remington produced Berthier rifles chambered in 8mm Lebel, the standard French military cartridge.
However, upon inspection and testing, the French military found issues with the Remington-produced Berthier rifles, including quality control problems and differences in manufacturing standards compared to French-made rifles. As a result, the French military rejected these rifles, and the contract with Remington was terminated.
Despite the rejection, some of the Remington-produced Berthier rifles did see limited use, primarily by colonial or auxiliary forces. However, they were not widely adopted or used in frontline service by the French military.
Overall, the Remington-produced Berthier rifles represent an interesting chapter in the history of firearms production during World War I. While they were manufactured to address a pressing need for rifles, their rejection by the French military underscores the importance of quality control and standardization in military firearms production. -R.E.
