MAS 1873 4.5” 12mm Single / Double Action 6 Round Revolver Antique 1884

SOLD FOR: $1,145.00

LSB#: WY240906JN016

Make: Saint Etienne

Model: 1873

Serial Number: J18721

Year of Manufacture: 1884

Caliber: .11mm MLE

Action Type: Single / Double Action

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MLE 1873” The left side of the barrel is marked “J18721” and proof marks.The cylinder is marked  “J18721” The left side of the frame is marked  “J18721” The right side of the barrel is marked “S1884” The right side of the frame is marked “MRE D’ARMES DE ETIENNE”

Barrel Length: 4.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set into a post dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a U groove cut into the top of the frame.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is defined. The grips rate in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.  In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun  retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are light scratches on the barrel and frame. There is rust freckling on the barrel. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions properly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The service revolver model 1873 was the first double-action revolver used by the French Army. It was produced by Manufacture d’armes de Saint-Étienne from 1873 to 1887 in about 337,000 copies. Although replaced by the Model 1892 revolver, it was nevertheless widely used during the First World War and issued to reserve units in 1940. The French Resistance made widespread use of it during the German occupation.

This revolver had the hammer replaced but is otherwise all original and in good condition. Good luck on your bid. M.C.