The Gras Scolaire was introduced around 1876 and remained in production until 1920. It was intended for civilian use at the “”Battalions Scolaire”” – the French School Battalions (Cadets). The rifles were miniaturised versions of the Gras service reifles. The case is based on a shortened 11x59R French Gras case with a round ball as the projectile.

The cartridge has a reduced charge for use as a training round and was produced by SFM from reject Gras cases with the headstamp removed.