[carterbeauford]

I picked up a St. Etienne 8MM Lebel for christmas, from 1916 I think. It was part of a floor lamp, thus the firing pin is removed. What would I need to do to make it safe to fire? Is there a relatively low powered surplus ammo that is safe to fire? I haven't even looked at the bore or barrel yet, these are preliminary questions... also do you think it would be easier to have a firing pin installed, or find a replacement bolt?

[carterbeauford]

OK I did some research, it's an MLE 1907/15. I removed the bolt and cleaned it, after removing a pencil from the barrel and 10 patches that came out pure black, the bore and barrel are not in bad shape at all. Rifling is pretty nice except for some minor pitting about halfway down the barrel. I think all I need is a firing pin and spring, anyone have a source?

[Onmilo]

Headspace must be checked before you attempt any return to firing order.
Quite a few of these rifles came into the country in poor condition and most all are generally not considered safe to fire any longer.

There is no inexpensive 8mm Lebel left anywhere in the world.
French ammunition was pretty poor quality when made and almost all stocks of French ammunition made prior to 1950 has literally disintegrated with the passage of time.

Old Western Scrounger is one source for expensive but shootable ammunition.

Jack First Gun Shop or Gun Parts Inc. should be able to provide a fire pin and cocking spring but these must also be fitted to ensure they do not protrude too far out the face of the bolt because this can cause a pierced primer and a faceful of hot gas from an excessive headspace French rifle is something you most definitely to not want to experience.

Take the rifle to a gunsmith who is experienced in these old Military rifles and don't be disappointed if he recommends you return the rifle back into a lamp.

[carterbeauford]

Onmilo, thanks for the info, that's what I needed to know.

If anyone can recommend a 'smith that can look at my rifle in the western PA or eastern OH vicinity I would appreciate it.