Italian Vetterli Model 1870/87?

[Midmichigun]

SM,
I would use it as a point to collect around. During the service time frame of this rifle, there was much change in rifle technology. Most people are in awe when they see mine, due to its elegance... and weight.
I would clean it up, and hang onto it... since you won't get much for it anyway...

[gunsmokeTPF]

This rifle is an Italian Vetterli-Vitali 1870-87 caliber 10.35x47. Originally it was a single shot rifle that was converted to use the 4 shot box magazine that was loaded by using a wood stripper clip. It's a centerfire cartridge unlike the original RF. The Italians in 1915 converted them again in order to use 6.5 carcano ammo during WWI. This model is referred to as the 1870-87-15. Their box magazine is the flat type which is easy to tell apart. It's said that it's OK to shoot the 6.5 only if it isn't put through it's paces too hard.