Carcano is the frequently used name for a series of Italian bolt-action military rifles and carbines. Introduced in 1891, this rifle was chambered for the rimless 6.5x52mm Mannlicher-Carcano Cartuccia Modello 1895 cartridge. It was developed by the chief technician Salvatore Carcano at the Turin Army Arsenal in 1890 and called the Model 91 (M91). Successively replacing the previous Vetterli-Vitali rifles and carbines in 10.35x47mmR, it was produced from 1892 to 1945.
The bayonet was issued to Italian troops during WWII. The handle is made of wood with two rivets that secure it. The pommel is
made of metal and houses the release button. the crossguard is distinctive in that one end tapers down and ends in the shape of
a ball. The other side has the muzzle ring. A number has been stamped on the side of the crossguard.
The blade is of single edge construction. A blood groove is present and extends nearly the entire length of the blade. This
example does not have a scabbard.
There was a version that could be folded.
The edge weapons from many countries are currently being
reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions are improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of these medals.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other military collectibles, you can do so by
going to our Military Collectibles
identification guide. Where we cover Army, Navy, Army Air Force and other organizations.
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