Uniquely Ethiopian Shortened Lebel Rifles
This video explores a unique variant of the Ethiopian Lebel short rifle, characterized by barrels shortened to approximately 25 inches. Out of a hundred surviving Lebels imported from Ethiopian storage, eleven were found in this modified configuration. Each rifle exhibits individual differences, particularly in front sight design, and all bear Ethiopian markings on the receiver. While individual examples might appear to be crudely modified, their presence as a significant portion of the Ethiopian rifle stores suggests a deliberate effort to make the long and unwieldy original Lebel more manageable. The exact origin and timing of these modifications remain unknown.














