I thought many would enjoy looking at what preceded the M1891 three-line rifle. I have been searching in vain for a M1870 Berdan II for years and have never even seem one in person. At this past Wanenmacher show in Tulsa I finally located the rare beast. This one was manufactured in 1884, the metal fantastic with virtually no rust or pitting anywhere. The wood had some really bad spots but otherwise in what I would call good shape for a 130 year-old gun. The price was even fair in my estimation therefore it came home with me!
edit 7/18/17
That rifle is gone, but replaced by a better one! This Berdan II is all matching even the clearing rod is stamped
I went years without even seeing one, then within 2 years I locate 2 and this one is pristine. I'm usually not near that lucky! Oh, and I bought it at auction with 5 other old rifles, a M1866 (1867) French Chassepot, a M1871 Mauser, a Werndl long gun, a dutch Beaumont, and M1867 Albini-Braendlin. They all matched and I had to replace 3 parts, a barrel band, a clearing rod, and a sling swivel. I still possess 4 of them.