Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifles, 1866 – 2016 is a reference guide for historians, shooters, and arms collectors alike, detailing the progression of French military rifles from the first paper-cartridge Chassepot rifles in 1866 through the FAMAS – the last military rifle to be made in France. This book is the first English-language work to comprehensively cover the subject, and includes all major models of French rifles:

• Chassepot

• Gras

• Kropatschek

• Lebel

• Berthier

• RSC

• MAS-36

• MAS-40/44/49/56

• FR-F1/2

• FAMAS

Each chapter includes a history of the rifle’s development and its intended use, along with information concerning known variants, production numbers, markings, disassembly and mechanical operation, bayonets, and a history of deployment and combat use. French small arms have played a unique role in global firearms development, often ahead of the curve and always unique. Supported by world-class color photography and printed to the highest standards, Chassepot to FAMAS is not just a valuable reference tool but also a beautiful book worthy of any discerning library.

Ian McCollum is the founder, editor, and presenter of Forgotten Weapons, a decade-old web site and video archive dedicated to preserving firearms history. He specializes in French small arms and holds a deep interest in collecting these weapons. It is his hope that Chassepot to FAMAS will lay the groundwork for a new level of appreciation and respect for these historically important weapons.

Features:

• Page count: 532

• 7.5" wide by 10" tall (approx.)

• Commercial quality, section sewn style binding which allows the book to lay flat

• Full color prints on premium quality paper stock

• Foil stamped, red faux leather hardcover

• Ribbon page marker

• Third Printing of Chassepot to FAMAS. This Third Printing of the First Edition of the book is in almost all respects identical to the prior printings of the First Edition, with the exception of the following changes: (1) “First Edition” has been removed from the spine of the exterior of the book; (2) spine hubs are no longer gilded; and (3) a limited number of corrections/adjustments have been made to the text.