The Chassepot Model 1866 was the French service rifle during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71, superior in several respects to the Prussian Dreyse Needle Gun it faced. The Chassepot used a rubber obturator seal at the breech that reduced gas leakage more effectively than the Dreyse, allowing higher velocity and effective range. Despite being technically superior, French defeat in 1870 was due to tactical and organizational failures rather than weapons. Type: Rifle Action: Bolt-Action Caliber: 11mm Needlefire Capacity: 1 Year introduced: 1866, France Weight: 9.25 oz Overall length: 51.5" Status: Discontinued Military use: Yes Intended use: military, collector, historical