ANTIQUE 1876 French Mle 1873 Chamelot-Delvigne Army Revolver 11mm All Matching Components

Description:
MANUFACTURER: D'ARMES DE SAINT-ETIENNE
MODEL: MODELE 1873 CHAMELOT-DELVIGNE FRENCH ARMY SERVICE REVOLVER
YEAR MANUFACTURED: 1876
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: FRANCE
SERIAL NUMBER: G32831
ROLLMARKS: "MRE D'ARMES ST ETIENNE" (FRENCH STATE ARSENAL MANUFACTURER), "MLE 1873" (OFFICIAL FRENCH SERVICE REVOLVER MODEL DESIGNATION), "S.1876" (1876 PRODUCTION DATE), FRENCH MILITARY ACCEPTANCE AND INSPECTOR MARKS
CALIBER: 11MM FRENCH ORDNANCE
CAPACITY: 6 ROUNDS
BARREL LENGTH: 4.50"
BARREL FEATURES: ROUND PROFILE SERVICE BARREL
OPERATING SYSTEM: REVOLVER
ACTION: DOUBLE ACTION / SINGLE ACTION 
TRIGGER: SMOOTH SERVICE TRIGGER
IRON SIGHTS: FIXED BLADE FRONT WITH FRAME NOTCH REAR
FRAME MATERIAL: STEEL
GRIP: CHECKERED HARDWOOD WITH LANYARD RING
FIREARM FINISH: MILITARY BLUE-BROWN PATINA
CONDITION: GOOD ANTIQUE CONDITION
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: ALL MATCHING SERIAL NUMBER G32831 COMPONENTS, 1876-DATED BARREL, ORIGINAL MILITARY CONFIGURATION, FRENCH ACCEPTANCE MARKS, ORIGINAL WALNUT GRIPS, ORIGINAL LANYARD RING, ANTIQUE PRE-1899 PRODUCTION
WHAT’S INCLUDED: REVOLVER

The French Modele 1873 was the first centerfire cartridge revolver officially adopted as standard issue by the French Army and remains one of the most important military handguns of the nineteenth century. This example was manufactured at the famed Saint-Etienne state arsenal in 1876 and represents an early production revolver from the model's military service life. Its robust construction and unmistakable profile made it one of the defining European military sidearms of the black powder era.

Designed by Chamelot and Delvigne, the Model 1873 was engineered to withstand hard military use while providing reliable double-action operation. The solid steel frame, substantial cylinder, and simple sighting system reflected the French military's emphasis on durability and field serviceability. More than a century later, these revolvers are still respected for their impressive mechanical quality and precision manufacturing.
The revolver retains its original military configuration with matching cylinder, barrel, and frame markings visible, along with original checkered walnut grips and the correct military lanyard ring. Numerous arsenal inspection and acceptance marks remain present, supporting the revolver's authenticity and military provenance.

Chambered for the 11mm French Ordnance cartridge, the Model 1873 served French forces for decades and remained in inventory well beyond its initial adoption period. The revolver's double-action mechanism and rugged lockwork contributed greatly to its reputation for dependable service. Examples retaining matching numbers and original military features have become increasingly difficult to locate as collector interest in European martial arms continues to grow.

For the advanced military handgun collector, this 1876 Saint-Etienne production revolver checks many of the boxes that matter most: early production date, matching serial numbers, original military configuration, arsenal markings, original grips, and French Army heritage. It stands as an authentic surviving example of one of Europe's most historically significant service revolvers and a centerpiece addition to any serious antique military firearms collection.

***Please see pictures for condition and wear***

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All pre-owned firearms offered by National Armory are thoroughly inspected by our on-site gunsmith to ensure they are in proper working condition. While test firing may or may not be conducted, all firearms are evaluated for basic function and safety. It is solely the buyer’s responsibility to be familiar with and comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership and accessory restrictions, including but not limited to magazine capacity and prohibited features. All sales are final.

Curio/Relic: Yes
Antique: Yes
Handgun Caliber: 11mm French Ordnance
Manufacturer: D'ARMES DE SAINT-ETIENNE
Model: Mle 1873
Serial Number: G32831
Barrel Length: 4.5
Manufacture Date: 1876

Price: $999.99
Shipping: $34.99
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