Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The Viven-Bessières rifle grenade was an infantry weapon in use with the French Army from 1916 onwards. Also known as the "VB" grenade, it was named after its inventors, and officially referred to as the "Viven-Bessières shell" in the French Army instruction manual. The grenade launcher system consists of two elements, the discharger (Launcher) and the projectile.
This is a great example of the grenade launcher part of the system, officially known as the "Cup discharger." Weight is around 1.5kg, and these were fitted onto the end of the French Lebel and Berthier rifles that were used during WWI. It consists of a long cup, which then has smaller section with twin flanges, which went around the rifle barrel. The channels between these would fit around the front sight of the rifle, and overall was a very stable system.
Almost all the examples out there today are "dug up" and in relatively poor condition, however this example does not appear to have spent any time under the ground. It does have some light surface oxidation, but no pitting or other damage. The original maker marks are even still visible! We had thought about cleaning it, but we felt that lovely patina it has acquired over 100 years preserving.
Very hard to find in this condition and ready to display!
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
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