They were issued to the rear echelon troops and they were used in WWI extensively in combat as the lines were rather fluid at times. No real record of them failing. They were still being issued to some native troops in WWII. There is a video of a guy firing full power loads through one on U-tube although I wouldn't try it.

The argument for is that the Italians are not going to issue a rifle that is dangerous to their troops, they did proof and test them. Age and wear would have an effect and that is why they are limited and who knows how many rounds went through the one you own.