French St. Etienne MLE 1873 11mm 4.5″ SA / DA Revolver MFD 1870s Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,176.00
LSB#: LSB250523DB001
Make: St. Etienne
Model: Model 1873
Serial Number: F28047
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1870s, Antique
Caliber: 11mm French Ordnance (11x17mmR)
Action Type: Single / Double Action Revolver, Side Loading-Gate Cylinder
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V”-notch integral to the rear of the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels. There are light handling marks present, as well as a crack in the left panel. The grip rates in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: In-the-White
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is strong. There is no erosion present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows typical handling wear. The screw heads are
Mechanics: The action functions correctly in both single and double action. The cylinder lockup is solid, and the hammer has a strong spring. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The French MLE 1873 was a robust and thoroughly modern sidearm at the time of its adoption by the French military. Issued primarily to officers, the solid-frame St. Etienne-built revolver featured double-action capability and was chambered in the unique 11mm French Ordnance cartridge, which was comparable to other European revolver rounds of the late 19th century. Though ballistically mild by modern standards, the cartridge—paired with the revolver’s mechanical reliability—earned the 1873 a solid reputation for durability.
This example is in complete and functional condition, with honest wear consistent with a revolver that could easily have seen service during the turbulent early years of the French Third Republic, and possibly even into World War I in auxiliary or colonial use. The patina across the frame and barrel, along with the checkered walnut grips, give this revolver an authentic, untouched antique character.
Collectors of 19th-century European military arms will appreciate the solid mechanics and historical importance of this early double-action service revolver. Whether you’re filling a gap in a late-1800s martial handgun lineup or simply looking for a piece with character and function, this St. Etienne MLE 1873 deserves attention. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
