SOLD - Italian Bodeo Model 1889 Revolver (I9220 - 18498)

Description

1/5/22 - This is a nice example of an Italian Bodeo Model 1889 revolver, manufactured by Castelli Breschia in 1915. Made by a large variety of Italian gun-makers, the Bodeo became the service revolver of the Italian Army in 1891. The revolver was named after the head of the Italian commission that recommended its adoption, Carlo Bodeo. It remained the principle handgun of the Italian Army until it was increasingly supplanted by the Glisenti Model 1910. The revolver was never declared obsolete and remained as a reserve weapon until the end of World War II. The Italian manufacturers identified with the production of the Bodeo include: Societa Siderurgica Glisenti, Castelli of Brescia, Metallurgica Bresciana, and Vincenzo Bernardelli of Gardone Val Trompia. During World War I, Spanish manufacturers Errasti and Arrostegui of Eibar produced the Bodeo for the Italian government. The Italians nicknamed this revolver coscia d’agnello ("leg of lamb"). During World War II, the Wehrmacht designated the Bodeo as Revolver 680 when utilized as an alternative firearm. This one is all matching and has an "Oval RP" marking on the right side of the frame. It has lost most of its original finish with heavy brown patina throughout. Comes with slightly worn period-correct wood grips. The bore is excellent - shiny with strong rifling.