Carcano Cavalry carbine bolt

[EMT_stuart]

Picked one up recently. This is the half-stocked model with a folding bayonet. Most ones I've seen have a bent bolt handle, but this one's is straight. Is this correct?

 

[Vaarok]

Either or, you'll find them with both kinds. Also, all Carcano bolts are interchangeable barring headspace.

 

[amd6547]

I have a Carcano Cav carbine (with bent bolt). Mine had the bayonet removed by the importer decades ago, with the mount milled off.
It is a fun, smooth operating carbine, and really compact.
I just wish the clips were cheaper. Considering how many Carcano clips were made, prices are outrageous... Ads for them often say "rare find" in the title, yet they have plenty.

 

[desidog]

Italian Carcanos were made in three different factories, with a lot of minor variations. There are 7 types of folding bayonet latch that i've seen.



I believe (but have no citation) that the cavalry carbines had bent bolts... Since the carbines were intended for troops riding horses and bicycles, a bend bolt would be a bit easier on the back of the bearer while galloping along.

 

[EMT_stuart]

I believe (but have no citation) that the cavalry carbines had bent bolts... Since the carbines were intended for troops riding horses and bicycles, a bend bolt would be a bit easier on the back of the bearer while galloping along.

This was what I was thinking. Most cavalry carbines I've seen had bent bolts. And the Carcanos cavalrys I've seen had mostly bent bolts as well.

 

[Shanghai McCoy]

The ones with the bent bolts were the ones that were thrown down harder before surrendering...

 

[MachIVshooter]

I've never seen a cav carbine with a straight bolt handle. Probably did exist, but I'd say more likely the bolt is from another rifle. Just check headspace before firing.

As an aside, they are neat little rifles. Light weight, handy, and the Carcano action is smooth & fast. I don't know why so few people like them, but I'm glad for that; it keeps prices down! I gave a whole $60 for my cav model, just had to fab a new bayonet lug

The ones with the bent bolts were the ones that were thrown down harder before surrendering..

Oh, the Italians fought gallantly. Their problem was figuring out who to fight.

 

[madcratebuilder]

A straight handle bolt is from the Model 41 rifle. The M38 Cavalry Carbine had bent bolts. Importers would change the bolts around for a different "look" trying to increase sales.

The Carcano is a fine rifle. Best for hand loaders as ammo can be hard to find.