The RSC Model 1917, designed by Ribeyrolles, Sutter and Chauchat, was the first semi-automatic rifle adopted by France, as formally adopted in May 1916. The Model 1917 rifles entered into mass production from April 1917 until the end of World War I in November 1918. There were approximately over 85,000 manufactured as well as 4,000 of the subsequent Model 1918 carbines. The Model 1917 was widely distributed among French infantrymen in the trenches during 1918, who found that the gas port required extra attention to cleaning due to powder fouling. The Model 1917 and the updated Model 1918 were phased out in the mid-20s after seeing service in the Rif War, with the majority being stripped of their gas hardware and converted to straight-pull repeaters (this example escaped this modification) for issue to colonial forces, often in North Africa. Additionally, a number found their way into the hands of the German Volksturm as last-ditch weapons during World War II. Blade front and folding ladder rear sight, with "MA T1918" (Manufacture d'Armes de Tulle) maker and date markings on the right breech area of the barrel, and "MA T Mle1917" marked on the left of the receiver. The straight wrist buttstock is stamped with the matching serial number to the rifle on the left, a "1918" dated circular stamp on the right, and a flat steel buttplate. Matching visible serial numbers on the barrel, bolt, trigger assembly, forearm, and buttstock.

Good, retains traces of original blue finish with mostly brown patina and some areas of gray patina, and scattered light pitting and oxidation indicative of some period trench use. Wood is also good as sanded and re-oiled, with clearly legible stamp on right side of buttstock, numerous scattered dents and scratches, and a few small stress cracks visible on top of the wrist directly behind the receiver tang. The safety lever is slightly bent but functional. Mechanically fine.