"Privatized" rifles...

[plantfoam]

As most of you probably know, the average Swiss soldier had the option of purchasing his rifle at the end of his normal 20 year (usually) period of reserve service. Such rifles are most often marked with a "P" on the K-31 and 1911 series of rifles. This is not to be confused with the Private series rifles, which are very rare.


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<!--EZCODE BOLD START--><strong>"Modern" privatization mark on a 1911 rifle, dated 1916</strong><!--EZCODE BOLD END-->





In many cases, the earlier stampings indicated a year as well, usually in a fraction style layout.


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<!--EZCODE BOLD START--><strong>Privatization mark on an 1889</strong><!--EZCODE BOLD END-->


The above marking shows that the rifle left military hands in 1920.


Phil

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