French St Etienne Model 1892 8mmx27R SA/DA Revolver, MFD c. 1890s Antique
SOLD FOR: $1200
LSB#: 210909DW15
Make: French Mre d’Armes St. Etienne
Model: 1892
Serial Number: 30350
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1890s
Caliber: 8mmx27R
Action Type: Single or Double Action SA/DA Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: The serial number, “30350”, appears in the front of the cylinder and bottom of the barrel boss. The right side of the barrel boss and the cylinder are marked “ST. ETIENNE”.
Barrel Length: 4 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade on a base that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch that is integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood panels. At the base, each panel has a weathered appearance, especially the right. The larger left panel has a few small losses, most notably at the bottom. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition, as antique.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is well-defined. There is no erosion, but there is light stubborn fouling throughout.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 89% of its metal finish. There is light surface oxidation on most surfaces, most notably on the right side. The barrel has light surface oxidation on the tip and light thinning on most edges. The cylinder has light thinning on most edges. The guard has gone to a bit of a light patina. Screws have light tool marks with strong slots and pins are unmarred. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition, as antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with light play on each chamber. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Made as a replacement for the Model 1873, the Model 1892 is a considered to be a firearm from the Golden Age of Firearms—factory methodology and practices were highly refined, but true craftsmanship and finishing were still a part of the process—and benefited from a long development started in 1887 that was interrupted by work on the 1886 Lebel rifle, and finally saw full production in 1892. The example on offer here is in fairly good condition, rating overall as Very Good with light finish loss, minor surface oxidation, and a good bore. Good luck and happy bidding!