Vetterli M1878
Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik (Swiss Federal Arsenal) · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1878
Also known as: Repetiergewehr Modell 1878, Vetterli Model 1878, M1878
Overview
The Vetterli M1878 was a Swiss bolt-action repeating rifle, an improved development of the original 1869 Vetterli. Chambered in the 10.4x38mm Swiss rimfire cartridge and fed from an under-barrel tubular magazine, it combined a self-cocking turn-bolt action with a high-capacity magazine, making it one of the most advanced military repeaters of its era.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4540 g (160.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1320 mm (51.97") |
| Barrel Length | 840 mm (33.07") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 11 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tube |
| Muzzle Velocity | 435 m/s (1427 fps) |
| Effective Range | 400 m (437 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 1000 m (1094 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 10.4x38mm Swiss Rimfire · primary — also known as 10.4mm Vetterli, .41 Swiss, 10.4x38R Swiss
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Bolt Mounted Safety
- Features: Tubular Magazine, Self Cocking Bolt, Rimfire Cartridge
Variants
- Vetterli M1878 Stutzer — Sharpshooter
- Vetterli M1881 — Improved Sights
Service history
Operators
- Swiss Confederation (Swiss Army) · adopted 1878 · as Repetiergewehr Vetterli Modell 1878
Production
Production years: 1878-1889
Manufactured by the Swiss Federal Arsenal and contractors; superseded by the Schmidt-Rubin 1889
Origin
Country of origin: Switzerland
Designer: Friedrich Vetterli
Discontinued: 1889
Notes
The Vetterli system was among the first military repeating rifles to combine a bolt action with a tubular magazine; the 1878 pattern refined the receiver, sights and stock over the 1869/71 models.
Background
When adopted, the Vetterli was the most modern infantry rifle in the world, giving Switzerland a 12-round repeater at a time when most European armies still issued single-shot rifles.