S/N: 17XX
Swiss Contract M1867/77 Peabody: The Peabody action is a breech-loaded action where the breechblock is tilted downwards across the bolt. The movement is utilized under the force of a lever that also serves as the trigger guard. Peabody rifles have external hammers and are single shot. The rifle design was developed by Henry O. Peabody of Boston, Massachusetts. The first patent was obtained on July 22, 1862. This rifle was made in mass production by the Providence Tool Company of Providence, Rhode Island. Rifles saw service all over the world. Peabody rifles were very popular in other nations and were adopted for use by militaries including Canada, Spain, Mexico, France, Romania, Switzerland, and both sides of the U.S. during the Civil War. Only 112,000 rifles were ever made (All models combined). This is quite a significant accomplishment because the barrels were broacher cut. This was a very lengthy and expensive process, especially during the time period. Peabody rifles were made in many calibers including .45 Peabody rimfire, 45-70 Government, .50 rimfire, 50-70, .433 Spanish, 10.4mm Rimfire Swiss. The Swiss Peabody was made by the Providence Tool Company under contract for the Swiss military. These rifles were adopted and used as a placeholder until the Swiss military later adopted their Vetterli rifles and used those. Swiss Peabodys are chambered in 10.4 Rimfire Swiss.