This is a scarce example of an unaltered French Model 1917 semi automatic rifle in 8X50 Lebel caliber as manufactured by "Manufactures Nationales", one of the French Arsenals. These rifles, along with the Swiss/Mexican Mondragon, represented some of the first attempts to produce a semi-automatic rifle as a standard infantry rifle when all other countries were using bolt action rifles. The design operates on a gas impingement system that drives a long piston/rod system located under the barrel, which was very unique in itself, that cycles a front locking 3-lug rotary bolt. As noted most of these rifles when found were converted to a straight-pull bolt action, as most were given to French Colonial forces in Africa. This example, however, remains in original unaltered condition. It still retains the operating rod/piston under the barrel, the small brass gas cap and front gas cap. The left side of the receiver is marked "MANUFACTURES NATIONALES/MA T/ MLE/1917". It has the standard front and folding rear ladder sight, graduated from 400-800 meters. The right side of the chamber is stamped "MA/T/1917". The barrel and operating rod/gas cover are both numbered "F36750"and the walnut stock is stamped "F5075" on the left side of the butt. It is fitted with two barrel bands, sling swivels and a smooth, flat buttplate. Also included with the rifle is a cruciform bayonet, 13 1/2 inch blue steel blade (18 overall) with a steel mounting collar and brass grip.

Excellent with 95% of the original blue finish, showing some minor areas of brown and gray patina, along with scattered handling marks and edge wear. The stock is very fine with 90% of a dark brown finish with minor handling marks overall, with a minor crack in the upper handguard, which also has some minor handling marks. The bayonet is very good, with mild sheath wear and handling marks. A desirable piece of military history, and an important milestone of the development of the semi-automatic infantry rifle.