St. Etienne MLE 1873 11mm French SA/DA Revolver MFD 1877 Antique W/ Ammo
SOLD FOR: $1,481.00
LSB#: WY250310DK011
Make: St. Etienne
Model: Mle 1873
Serial Number: G58170
Year of Manufacture: 1877 (Antique)
Caliber: 11mm French Ordnance
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Ejector Rod
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MJ” The left side of the hammer, trigger, cylinder and frame are marked “G58170” The top of the barrel is marked “MLE 1873 / G58170” The rigth side of the barrel is marked “S 1877” The right side of the frame is marked “MLE DI ARMES ST ETINNE”
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood panels. The checkering is defined. There is some light handling wear present. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are some light scratches and some surface oxidation present. The markings are clear. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. This revolver rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly in both single and double action. The timing and lockup are solid. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 2, 50 round boxes of custom ammunition. Ammunition will be shipped separately to comply with ATF laws and regulations. This is custom loaded ammo, selling as components only.
Our Assessment: The St. Etienne Model 1873 revolver was the first modern cartridge-firing sidearm adopted by the French military and saw extensive use through World War I, with some even seeing service into World War II. Chambered in 11mm French Ordnance, this revolver was built to be rugged and reliable. Though eventually replaced by later designs, it remained a serviceable and widely respected sidearm in French military history.
The Model 1873 features a robust all-steel construction and a unique profile that distinguishes it among 19th-century service revolvers. With both single and double action capability, it was ahead of its time compared to many contemporary European revolvers, making it an excellent collectible piece for enthusiasts of military firearms and European martial history.
This example, manufactured in 1877, is classified as an antique and would make a fantastic addition to any military arms collection. Whether for historical appreciation or display, it represents a pivotal step in the evolution of European military sidearms. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
