Info on Culle M1874

[hnachaj]

I opened one of my vaults with surplus rifles. I found this single shot rifle and don't remember anything about it and what it is worth today. I have had it for some 30 years.
Thanks
Henry

 

[Claven2]

It's a 1874M80 French Gras rifle made by Tulle (not Culle). I assume it's in 11x59R, though some of these were converted to Mle 1874M80-14 in 8mm Lebel.

In terms of value, that depends on a lot of things, such as whether the rifle is matching, bore condition, etc.

As a minimum, it's worth at least $450 IMHO based on the pics you posted.

 

[hnachaj]

Thanks for the info! The bore is a bit dark. There is only one serial number visible anywhere, it is on the bolt. It has the original sling and a cleanning rod. The bore mikes out at aprox .320 land to land. That T sure lookes like a C!

I will put it up today on the EE.

Thanks
Henry

 

[Claven2]

Henry, it will have another serial number on the barrel under the handguard. If the bore mikes to .320 or so, then it's a Mle 1874M80-14 converted for French rear-echelon troops to 8mm Lebel in 1914. It's probably an ex-Montral rifle. Jean from P&S could comment, but there was a men's catholic club of some sort that used these between the wars so they aren;t that uncommon in Canada, but rare in other countries.

 

[donor]

I'm reloading for and shooting one of those.
Good rifle,handles and feels like older muzzleloaders (Gras originated as 1866 Chassepot needle rifle and some of its parts look like direct copy of much older designs).
Are you sure your bore is .320?Most of those I heard of are above .325 ( mine is .327).

 

[hnachaj]

Doing some homework, it is a 1914 conversion. I just sold it. Thanks for all the info. I am working on some African game project right now and emptying one of my vaults.
Henry