The hosts open a crate of Italian surplus rifles and reveal Italian M91 Carcano Cavalry Carbines. They immediately notice that these rifles are shorter than expected, and explain that they are cavalry carbines rather than the original long 1891 Carcano rifle. The shorter overall length and 17.5 inch barrel were intended for mounted cavalry, making the rifle easier to carry on horseback and to bring into action quickly. Despite the compact size, the carbines retain the same basic configuration and layout as the long rifle. The initial visual inspection shows that the rifles appear to be in generally good surplus condition, with stocks and metal that look solid for their age.
Attention turns to the 6.5×52mm Carcano cartridge used in these carbines. The hosts compare a 6.5 Carcano round to a 6.5 Creedmoor, noting how similar they appear at a glance. They point out differences in the neck and case profile, and suggest the Creedmoor case is likely a bit wider and designed for higher pressures. They emphasize that, even if a 6.5 Creedmoor round might physically chamber, it should not be fired in a Carcano. The 6.5 Carcano is described as an early smokeless powder cartridge adopted in 1891, advanced for its time but not especially powerful by modern ballistic standards. The carbines in the video are all chambered in this original 6.5 Carcano cartridge.
The hosts explain the distinctive Mannlicher en‑bloc clip system used by the M91 Carcano Cavalry Carbine. Instead of stripper clips, the rifle uses a six‑round en‑bloc clip that is inserted entirely into the magazine well. As rounds are chambered, the clip remains in place, and after the last round is fired and the bolt is opened, the empty clip drops out through the hole in the bottom of the magazine. The operation is compared to the M1 Garand’s clip system. They note that these carbines do not appear to be refurbished; rather, they were maintained in arsenals after service. Stocks show typical dings from storage and use, but overall the rifles look better than many surplus examples, with the top and bottom rows in the crate appearing consistently solid.
The discussion moves to the service history of the M91 Carcano Cavalry Carbine. Originally intended for mounted cavalry, the carbines were also issued to Italy’s bicycle cavalry during World War I, reflecting how mobility doctrines evolved beyond horses. After World War I, these carbines continued in service with the Carabinieri, Italy’s military police force, before eventually being placed into arsenals for long‑term storage. The hosts briefly address the Carcano’s notoriety from the JFK assassination, noting that Lee Harvey Oswald used a Carcano rifle chambered in 6.5 Carcano, but not this specific cavalry carbine model. The video keeps the focus on this variant’s distinct configuration and role rather than the assassination rifle.
Several bayonet variations attached to the carbines are examined. One bayonet uses a push‑button lock, another has a lever‑type locking mechanism, and a third employs a slide lock actuated by pulling back small ears. Some of the mechanisms are stiff from age and storage and would benefit from oil and basic maintenance. The stocks show different stamped markings, likely reflecting various arsenals, inspectors, or unit assignments, and one stock appears to have a name carved into it, possibly “Latino” or “Centino.” The rear sight features a V‑notch and can fold down into a cutout in the stock, providing a fixed “battlefield zero” position. When raised, the sight allows elevation adjustments for longer‑range shooting, while the front sight remains a simple, elevated post.
The hosts place the M91 Cavalry Carbine in the broader context of World War I and interwar small‑arms development. Trench warfare created a need for shorter, more maneuverable rifles that were easier to handle in confined spaces and among tightly packed soldiers. Many nations shortened their standard rifles, such as the transition from the long Mosin‑Nagant M1891 to the 91/30, and from the Gewehr 98 to the K98k. Italy followed a similar path, adopting the M91/38 short carbine as a standard infantry weapon. The M91 Cavalry Carbine, however, predates that shift and was originally intended for mounted troops, though infantry would also have appreciated its lighter weight. The video notes that other Carcano variants are on the market, but this specific cavalry configuration is less commonly seen.
The practicality of the permanently attached folding bayonet on the M91 Cavalry Carbine is discussed. The hosts highlight how long the blade becomes when extended, especially when combined with the rifle’s length, which would have been advantageous for a soldier on horseback or otherwise elevated, allowing greater reach in close combat. Having the bayonet integrated into the rifle reduces the need to carry a separate long blade and scabbard, which is beneficial in trenches or on the march. Even for infantry on foot, facing opponents armed with longer rifles and mounted bayonets, a carbine with an extended bayonet helps offset reach disadvantages. The design reflects the period’s emphasis on both compact handling and effective bayonet reach.
In closing, the hosts note that while Carcano rifles in general are available on the surplus market, this particular M91 Cavalry Carbine variant is not commonly encountered. The rifles in the crate appear broadly similar in condition, with some stocks darker or more worn but still structurally sound and largely free of obvious heavy rust. Markings on the receivers and stocks remain visible on many examples. The video mentions that Classic Firearms offers a hand select option for these surplus rifles: a picker will examine ten carbines and choose the best‑looking example for the order. The hosts remark that, based on what is visible in the crate, most of the carbines should respond well to basic cleaning, lubrication, and routine care.
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