DESCRIPTION: Scarce Swiss breech loading M.1864-67 Milbank-Amsler stutzer converted from Federal M.1864 percussion stutzer. Caliber: 10.4 x 38 mm Rimfire (Swiss .41). According to the Swiss sources the stutzer is a type of carbine, although the weapon is long enough to be considered a rifle. Swinging-block mechanism conversion was approved for the Swiss army issue in December 1863. Originally, the system was patented in the USA by Isaac Milbank, and later it was modified by Rudolf Amsler. Twenty gun makers took part in the Swiss army conversion program. The stutzer displays markings on the lock plate, "F. Schlegel in Locle". These are most likely the markings of the factory, or rather a gunsmith workshop, that converted the carbine from percussion to breech loading system. The lock plate also displays Belgian gun maker markings, "Crown over BF" (Beuret Freres, Liege). Belgian gun makers manufactured percussion muskets, rifles and stutzers for various Swiss cantons. There are no Swiss cantonal militia property markings stamped on the rifle. Several other Swiss markings and proofs are stamped on various metal parts and on the stock. The carbine does not show any serial numbers. Some assembly numbers are stamped on various parts of the carbine. Double set trigger mechanism. Swiss style butt plate and rear sight. The carbine has two military style sling swivels. There is a Swiss style bayonet lug on the right side of the barrel, near the muzzle. All steel furniture. Complete with original cleaning rod (ramrod). CONDITION: Excellent. 92% of finish is still present on the metal (turning to pleasing brownish color in some places). The lock plate shows about 87% of case coloring. Some wear and light patina on the barrel, near the muzzle. Some light cleaning marks and some metal roughness are visible on the rear sight. The front trigger guard screw is missing. Very nice walnut stock with only few handling marks. No cracks to the stock. Excellent bore with sharp rifling. Action is very crisp and fully functional. The double set trigger mechanism works very well. All the internal parts of the carbine are in excellent condition. All the markings on metal and wood are clearly visible. Overall length: 50 inches. Barrel length: 30.75 inches. Scarce Swiss breech loading M.1864-67 Milbank-Amsler Stutzer carbine in very collectible condition! The rifle comes from my family member collection of military firearms. (Ref. "Hand- und Faustfeuerwaffen. Schweizerische Ordonnanz 1817 bis 1975", p.75).
