LeMat Revolver, USA 1855

Description of the Product

The LeMat revolver was developed by Dr. Jean Alexandre LeMat of New Orleans. The revolver contained a rather unusual secondary barrel below the actual barrel. The second barrel is 16 caliber and smooth-bore. It worked with a gunpowder charge and fired buckshot, i.e. in a way it acted as a small shotgun. Due to this unique addition, it was nicknamed the Grape Shot Revolver.

As such, this weapon was fiery compared to other weapons of its time, as the roll could hold nine bullets and an additional barrel with shotguns served as a nice extra protection after the bullets ran out. It was not considered to be a very accurate weapon, although it was deadly at close range. Civil War cavalrymen, particularly in the South, preferred to carry several guns, as it was faster to draw another loaded weapon than it was to try to reload a cap and ball revolver in combat.

The LeMat revolver was manufactured in both America and Europe, albeit in relatively small quantities. This revolver was a weapon of the Confederate army in the American Civil War of 1861–1865, and in Europe the pistol was used for example in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. The cap and ball revolver can be seen in many Western films, tv-series and games.

• This gun is an exact replica of the original. The replica matches the original in size and weight, and the mechanisms of the weapon are working. The weapon can be cocked and dry fired like a real one. Due to the materials used, the mechanisms cannot withstand continuous cocking and firing for long periods.
• Cast metal has been used to make this replica weapon. The handle plates are plastic. Zamac differs from steel in many respects, so the structure of the gun does not withstand pressure, it cannot be used to fire bullets, nor can it be converted to a functional weapon by any means.
• Replica guns such as this do not require permits in Finland, nor in many other countries. However, since the gun looks real, it should not be carried in public.
• A replica gun is perfect for historical re-enactment, on a theater stage, in film productions, for collectors of historical memorabilia, and as decoration.
• Length: 37 cm
• Weight: 1,47 kg
• Manufacturer: Denix, Spain

Due to the nature of this item please read about shipping options/restrictions if ordering outside Finland.   –More information about international shipping-