This is a scarce example of a French Model 1917 rifle in 8X50 Lebel caliber as manufactured by one of the French arsenals during WWII. These rifles are unique in that they were developed in the 1916-1918 period when most of the countries in the free world were just trying to equip their armies with a standard, front locking lug, bolt action rifle. Here the French developed a very unique semi-automatic rifle that used three front locking lugs with a "Rotating Bolt" system (similar to the front locking lugs found on the Canadian Ross straight pull rifles) which used a gas operated, semi-automatic mechanism to function the rifle. This system used a revolutionary concept in that the French installed a gas port on the bottom of the barrel to function a full length operating rod, mounted on the right side of the action to cycle the bolt. This design did not prove to be very robust and most, like this rifle, were converted to a straight pull single shot rifle that were eventually sold or given to colonial troops. These rifles are usually marked on the sides of the receiver with the factory markings. However, this rifle is marked on the sides of the barrel which may indicate a late production rifle. The right side of the barrel at the breech is marked "MA T.1917", and the left side is marked with "LP" and circled "B" proofs and the serial number "f28700" which matches the number on the cocking bar, forearm, and buttstock. It has the number "f37346" ahead of the trigger guard. Tangent rear sight, straight grip stock with upper handguard, and leather sling. The right side of the buttstock has a "1917 MA" circle cartouche. With a bayonet numbered "FL46134" with scabbard.

Very fine. The rifle retains 80% faded original dull arsenal blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is an area of minor spotting on the buttplate. The handguard has been repaired and there is a cut-out (likely for a sight) on the top. The stock is very good with a long crack and a couple large gouges on the forearm along with numerous minor pressure marks, scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is very good with some minor pitting.