This is the Model 1871-1888 with the updated magazine. The Dutch Beaumont Model 1871 Infantry rifle was a single shot bolt action rifle. This later variation added the uniquely shaped Vitali fixed magazine, creating a bolt action repeating rifle. Contemporary to the U. S. Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor rifle, while we were using single shots, the European countries were building early bolt action magazine rifles, using bottleneck cartridges, very advanced for this late black powder cartridge era. This rifle is missing its cleaning rod, and the buttplate is heavily textured from being stored on a damp floor. The bore is rough and dark, and the iron furniture has developed a dark textured brown patina. The buttstock has a bold cartouche on the right side. Weight is 9.5 pounds and the trigger reach is 13-1/4".

The tapered round barrel is 33" long. A short 1" octagon section, at the breech end of the barrel, is marked 1875 on the left oblique flat. A proof mark is stamped directly in front and behind the date stamp. The right oblique flat is stamped with three proof marks. The barrel is fitted with a magnificent rotating ramp adjustable sight. Graduated in yards and "paces", one side of the sight graduations are reversed, so you can use one side, and roll the rifle in your hands to read the other side of the sight. The front sight is a standard military blade, on an integral base, exactly like the front sight of a trapdoor Springfield. The barrel exterior has aged to a dark textured brown patina. The bore is rough, dark, and heavily pitted.

The European walnut buttstock has no visible cracks, checks, flaws, or repairs were observed, only the handling marks from normal use, which are many. The stock has an attractive color, with the real eye appeal of a well aged finish, and we strongly recommend that you simply clean the stock, and avoid abrasives. Nice old antique guns should be appreciated for their service, not refinished. A large cartouche is stamped on the right side of the buttstock. A sling swivel is fitted to the buttstock, and the forward swivel is mounted to the rear barrel band. The steel cleaning rod is missing.

The magazine fed center fire bolt action is surprisingly modern, considering this time period. The USA was armed with single shot Trapdoor rifles during this era, perhaps due to our huge investment in muzzle loading technology during our Civil War. Pulling the bolt open ejects the fired case, and causes the spring loaded magazine to lift the next cartridge into position. Despite its age, this action works crisply, and seems to be in perfect working order. It was obviously a strong and well made rifle action, an example of European workmanship.

This Dutch Beaumont - Vitali Model 1871/88 Bolt Action Rifle rifle would make a great addition to your turn of the century or First World War gun collection. It has a wonderful warm patina and will make a great display piece. Order it for a ten day visual inspection. You will be delighted. Else if it does not fit you, return it in unfired condition for same-day refund. Postage is your only risk, when you order any one-of-a-kind gun from Track, whether new, used, or antique.