This is a fine example of an early French Model 1917 semi automatic rifle in 8X50 Lebel caliber as manufactured by MAT. The original rifles were very unique when developed in the 1916-1918 period as they were one of the first semi-automatic rifles ever manufactured and were used during WWI. They used three front locking lugs with a rotating bolt system, that used a impingement gas system similar to rifles being produced today. This rifle had a small gas port on the bottom of the barrel that cycled an operating rod, mounted on the right side of the rifle which was attached to the bolt. This design did not prove to be very robust and most were converted into a straight pull, single shot rifle that were eventually sold or given to Colonial troops. The right side of the barrel at the breech is marked "MA T.1917" and the left side is marked "LP" and circled "B" proofs. The left side of the receiver is marked "MANUFATURES NATIONALES/MA T MLE 1917 S". The barrel, stock and forend all have the matching serial number "F55565" with the front edge of the lower receiver having serial number "F 25998". It has the military tangent style rear sight and fixed/modified front sight. It has the original military style straight grip stock with upper hand guard. The right side of the buttstock has a faint "1917 MA" circle cartouche. It is complete with an original French steel bayonet and steel scabbard. This rifle still retains the original brass gas port cover on the underside of the barrel.

Very good overall with 60% of the original blued finish with the exposed top portion of the barrel and both barrel bands, having browned out. The stock and forend are both in very good condition with their original dark brown finish, but showing numerous heavy scratches, and pressure dents from field use and years of handling. The end of the safety lever is broken off. Mechanically functions fine, but is slightly stiff.