Swiss, 1892, Model 1889 Schmidt–Rubin Rifle, Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik Bern, Privatized 1919 (P19), Matching Numbers, Obsolete Calibre

*Swiss, 1892, Model 1889 Schmidt–Rubin Rifle, Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik Bern, Privatized 1919 (P19), Matching Numbers, Obsolete Calibre*

A scarce early long-bolt Schmidt–Rubin Model 1889, manufactured in 1892 at the Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik, Bern, retaining matching numbers throughout and later released from military service and privatized in 1919 (P19), remaining in its original military configuration.

The rifle retains matching serial number 63671 across the principal components including the receiver, barrel and detachable magazine, with the abbreviated number 671 repeated on secondary parts such as the rear sight and butt furniture, consistent with Swiss assembly and inspection practice.

The butt is stamped with a “2” within a circle, a typical cantonal or unit rack marking, together with Swiss acceptance marks. Additional inspection stamps are present, including the Swiss cross proofs and a V-over inspection mark associated with the period of Major Vogelsang’s inspectorate (late 19th–early 20th century), confirming official military acceptance.

This early pattern is immediately recognisable by the long receiver, the distinctive Swiss nose cap incorporating bayonet lug and stacking rod, and the characteristic gap between the trigger guard and magazine—features unique to the original 1889 design. The straight-pull bolt operates correctly, cocking and dry-firing.

The rifle is accompanied by its box magazine and sling and displays numerous Swiss inspection and acceptance marks throughout, supporting its status as an authentic service rifle later retained by its soldier on discharge.

Approx. Measurements – Barrel length: 75.5 cm. Overall length: 131 cm.

Historical Note:
Manufactured in 1892 at the Eidgenössische Waffenfabrik, Bern, this rifle represents an early production example of the original Schmidt–Rubin Model 1889, the first of Switzerland’s straight-pull service rifle series.

Officially adopted on 26 June 1889, the design was developed by Rudolf Schmidt with ammunition engineered by Eduard Rubin, introducing the distinctive straight-pull bolt system which allowed rapid operation without the need to lift and rotate the bolt handle. Early production progressed unusually quickly, as tooling at the federal arsenal had already begun prior to formal adoption. The Model 1889 is immediately recognisable by its long receiver and extended bolt sleeve, together with the distinctive Swiss nose cap incorporating the bayonet lug and stacking rod. While innovative, the great length of the bolt assembly was later considered a structural weakness, leading to the strengthened successor patterns such as the Model 1889/96 and later developments. As a result, rifles remaining in their original long-bolt configuration are increasingly sought after by collectors as true first-pattern examples.

Production of the Model 1889 continued from 1891 until 1897, with approximately 211,890 service rifles manufactured, together with a very small number of drill or training rifles (Exerzierwaffen), giving a total output of roughly 212,000. Serial ranges place this example firmly within the early 1892 production period.

The P19 marking indicates that the rifle was released from military service and retained by its issuing soldier in 1919, reflecting Switzerland’s long-standing militia tradition whereby service rifles could be purchased upon discharge. Such privatized rifles often remained carefully maintained in private hands.

The Schmidt–Rubin system remained the backbone of Swiss infantry armament—through successive improvements—until the mid-20th century, making the Model 1889 the foundational rifle of Switzerland’s renowned straight-pull lineage.

*Condition*
A genuine service example showing honest military wear. Metal surfaces display age toning and light spotting consistent with long service. The stock retains good colour with handling marks but no obvious structural faults. Matching serial numbers remain present across major components, enhancing collectability. The action cocks and dry-fires. Magazine is present but currently tight and not easily removable. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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