^Lot 6 French Mle.1853-67 & quot;Tabatiere& quot; Breechloading 3-Band Infantry Rifle

French Mle.1853-67 "Tabatiere" Breechloading 3-Band Infantry Rifle, Belgian Altered to Metallic Cartridge from Percussion, NVSN, 17.8mm, 34.6" round barrel, block-blade front and sliding-leaf rear sights, Belgian view and Liege "ELG" proofs and a sunken "O" at breech; variant Snider-style "trapdoor" breechblock is marked with 3 Belgian proofs outside, "883S" inside, has rebounding firing pin; back-action lock has distinctive "leaning" hammer, may have had markings removed; 3 brass bands, middle with sling swivel, upper double-strap band/nosecap retaining the trumpet-tip ramrod. Oil-finished walnut fullstock. Originally mfg'd 1850s. Condition is good being bright gunmetal (bit of cleaned erosion at top of buttplate) having sharp edges and markings (barrel appears to have had markings peened over at breech). Stock is sound, has thru-plug at butt, replacement wood section above lower band. Action is strong and crisp, trapdoor hinge secure, smoothbore is clean with light oxidation. Est.: $750-$1,000. (Antique)