Carcano Model 1891 T.S. carbine 6.5x52mm – 1913, BRESCIA, RARE, WW1

The M1891 TS (Moschetto per Truppe Speciali) was Italy’s compact Carcano for support troops who needed a handier rifle without the shortened half-stock cavalry carbine configuration. Issued to drivers, artillery crews, and other support personnel, the TS was introduced by Brescia arsenal in 1898 and chambered for the 6.5x52mm cartridge. It featured a full-length stock and forend, down-turned bolt handle, 17.7” barrel, and detachable folding bayonet. The TS served in World War I trenches and, despite the program ending in 1919, remained in Italian inventory through World War II. This example, serial number 16751, produced in 1913 by Brescia, shows expected military wear, retaining 90% factory finish on the barrel and 80% on the receiver, and the bore has strong rifling although there is corrosion in the grooves hence the 4/10 rating – it will spin a bullet just fine and is likely plenty accurate. This Carcano has matching serial numbers on the stock and receiver, although the rear sight is numbered differently. Arsenal refurbishments were common during service, but it is less common to find a Carcano with a stock still serialized to the receiver, since stocks were often replaced after hard military use. Long overlooked by militaria collectors, Carcanos are gaining appreciation and becoming increasingly desirable – don’t miss the chance to add this one before prices climb higher! Specifications and pictures are below. Thanks for looking!