The Fucile di Fanteria Mod. 91/41 was the final variation of the Carcano bolt-action rifle built for the Italian army for use in war. The Carcano rifle was originally designed by Salvatore Carcano in 1890 and was adopted for use by the Italian Army in 1891, hence the “91” in almost all the designations given to the various models of the Carcano rifle. The rifle used an en-bloc clip similar to the Commission Model 1888 rifle recently introduced in Germany. Unlike most rifles of the time, thanks to the Carcano’s smaller cartridge diameter, the en-bloc clip held six rounds rather than the usual five. The cartridge used was the 6.5x52mm Carcano round. This utilized a heavy 162gr round nosed projectile which provided great penetration at the cost of distance due to the less aerodynamic bullet. This is of course said in hindsight as sharp spitzer bullets did not exist in 1891. This development in bullet design was not introduced until 1898 with the French “Ball D” bullet for the 8mm Lebel. The Carcano was developed through a variety of infantry rifles, infantry carbine, and cavalry carbines, with barrel lengths ranging from a very short 17.7 inches to a long 30.0 inches. The 91/41 used the second longest barrel at 27.2 inches and was intended for use by regular troops. This example was produced at the Terni Arsenal in 1942. As Italy surrendered the next year in 1943 to the Allies, the 91/41 was not widely issued and so many were in excellent condition compared to their predecessors. However, this also means that only a relatively small number of the 91/41 were produced. The long barrel and adjustable sights on this model provide the rifle with greater accuracy at long ranges than the shorter barreled models. The bore is in fantastic condition and likely has seen little use. The stock is in good condition with a few small dings in the wood. The serial number stamped into the wood matches the serial number on the receiver. Strangely, the bolt is not matching. The butt plate exhibits some minor pitting and the exterior of the mag well has some as well. Amazingly, the cleaning rod is still present. This in itself is very unusual as most ex-military bolt action rifles have long been missing this piece of equipment. Stripper clips for the Carcano are not at all difficult to find and PPU and a few other manufacturers still produce ammo for the rifle. If you are a collector of military rifles this rifle would make a nice addition to the collection.