M1874 Gras

Go Back to Infantry Rifle

	Weapon: M1874 Gras Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: France Year Adopted: 1874 Caliber: 11mm Gras Action: Bolt-Action Overall Length (mm): 1320.0 Overall Length (in): 51.97 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82 Effective Range (m): 600 m Effective Range (yards): 656.17

The M1874 Gras was a French bolt-action rifle developed from the Chassepot rifle. Chambered in 11mm Gras, the rifle was adopted by the French Army in 1874 and became one of the first metallic-cartridge rifles in French service. Its adoption marked France's shift from needle-fire rifles to more modern cartridge-firing weapons.

Used during the late 19th century, the M1874 saw action in colonial campaigns and during the Franco-Prussian War's aftermath. It was later modified for use with smokeless powder as the 1884/14 variant during World War I, though by that time it was primarily issued to rear-line troops.

The M1874 Gras is significant for its role in modernizing the French Army. While it was eventually replaced by more advanced bolt-action rifles like the Lebel, it is remembered as a durable and reliable firearm of its era, with some models still surviving in ceremonial use today.

Top 5 Military Black Powder Cartridge Antique Rifles of the 19th Century