Original item. Only One Available. This is a really fantastic and rare U.S. Civil War era French 7mm pinfire revolver, with a MASSIVE TWELVE ROUND CYLINDER! Apparently the solution to not having to reload as often was this, resulting in a very impressive (and heavy) revolver. It was originally produced in the less common 7mm Lefaucheux pinfire chambering, and functions in both double and single action. At some point after the Civil War period, a spring and firing pin were added under the hammer so it could take center fire ammunition, but if this was removed and the hold plugged, it could easily be returned to its original state.
The Pinfire system was the earliest form of "Cartridge" developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. They were also used in some rifles, and were available in many sizes, including 15mm, 12mm, 9mm, 7mm, 5mm, and 2mm. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860's regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced.
The revolver has a 4 3/8" long barrel, and measures about 8 3/4 inches in overall length. It has the typical Frenchy design, showing a cylinder without a top strap and the characteristic grip. We did not find any markings at all on the revolver, which was not uncommon due to wanting to conceal the origin of arms imported to the Confederacy. It is very possible that the revolver was made in Liège, Belgium, who were already making large numbers of revolvers for the French. Definitely some great research potential here!
Overall condition shows a good deal of the original bluing still present, especially on the frame and barrel, while the hammer and cylinder show a bit more wear. The wooden grips are in great shape, showing no major damage or cracks, and only light wear. The lanyard ring on the bottom of the grip is in great shape and still present.
The revolver cycles well, though the cylinder does tend to "rebound" after the trigger is released. It still has a functional loading gate and ejector rod, and we checked the bore, and it is in very good condition. It shows strong lands and grooves with a mostly bright finish, showing only light wear.
A fantastic historical gun from the Civil War era, ready to research and display!
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 7mm Lefaucheux - later Converted
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 8 3/4 inches
Barrel Length: 4 3/8 inches
Action: Double / Single Action
Feed System: 12 Shot Revolver
NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.
