1896/11 - muzzle (recessed crown removed)
Just recently I found an 1896/11 in very good shape - matching numbers, good rifling, etc. In my haste I failed to notice that the muzzle had been shortened by about 3/4 inch bringing it almost even with the stacking stud.
Does anyone have any idea why this would be done? I assume there must have been some damage but it the work was done very well. I haven't shot it yet but I am wondering what to expect. Any ideas? I did not buy it to be a wall hanger and am not worried about the collector value but I am disappointed in myself for not noticing it before buying.
Will post photos in a couple days
I didn't think about the bayonet mounting possibility - that could be a reason. The muzzle shortening looks like it was done professionally - not just somebody taking a hack saw to it.
I just picked up 60 rounds of GP11 ammo at a gun show (made in '82) and will shoot it soon. My hope is that, for whatever reason the barrel was shortened, it is still a good shooter. I know Swiss rifles can handle the cold but this shooter will wait for it to get a bit warmer!
Thanks for the information and I will try to get some photos up tomorrow...