Make: Izhevsk Arsenal, Russia
Model: Berdan II
Serial Number: 60582
Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: 10.75x58R
Action Type: Bolt Action, Single Shot
Barrel Length: 32 3/4"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small blade dovetailed to a barrel mounted block. The rear sight is a flip-up "V"-notch sight marked out to 15, the slider is missing from the ladder.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece wood with a forend cap, slot for a clearing rod (not present), two barrel bands, straight wrist, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are no swivels installed, but there is a hole drilled through the belly, presumably for a sling. The wood shows heavy wear and damage. There are cracks and losses. The LOP is 13 1/2" from the front to the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has scattered wear and oxidation. Overall, the stock is in Fair condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: No finish remains.
Finish Originality: The surfaces have been polished to white. The bolt serial doesn't match the barrel.
Bore Condition: The bore is dark. The rifling is worn, but visible. There is erosion and pitting scattered through the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 3-4/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains no metal finish. The metal surfaces have been polished to white. There is scattered surface erosion. There are nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are worn but mostly legible. There is some sort of foreign script on the right of the barrel which is notably deeper and more clear than the original markings. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Russian Izhevsk Arsenal Berdan II in 10.75x58R is a historically significant bolt-action rifle that showcases the ingenuity of late 19th-century military arms development. Designed by American firearms inventor Hiram Berdan, this rifle became the standard service weapon for the Russian Empire in 1870, marking a pivotal moment in the modernization of its military. Manufactured at the renowned Izhevsk Arsenal, the Berdan II exemplifies robust construction, reliability, and functionality, qualities that were essential for service in the challenging conditions of the Russian Empire. Chambered in the powerful 10.75x58R cartridge, the Berdan II offered impressive firepower and range for its time. Its single-shot bolt-action design prioritized simplicity and durability, ensuring ease of operation and maintenance in the field. While eventually replaced by more advanced repeating rifles, the Berdan II served as a critical step in transitioning the Russian military to modern small arms, and it remained in service with reserve units and militias long after its introduction.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Izhevsk Arsenal Berdan II is a prized piece of military history that reflects both American innovation and Russian industrial capability. Its association with Hiram Berdan and its role in equipping one of the world's largest armies during a transformative period make it an important artifact. Whether admired for its historical significance, rugged design, or connection to the evolution of Russian military firearms, the Berdan II is a must-have for those interested in 19th-century weaponry and the interplay of global innovation in arms development. Please see our photos and good luck!
