Franchi Falconet
Luigi Franchi S.p.A. · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1968
Also known as: Luigi Franchi Falconet, Falconet Field
Overview
The Franchi Falconet is a lightweight over-and-under double-barrel shotgun produced by the Italian gunmaker Luigi Franchi of Brescia from 1968 to 1975. Built around an engraved light aluminum-alloy receiver to keep weight low, it paired stacked steel barrels with a ventilated rib, automatic ejectors and a single selective trigger. Offered in 12, 16, 20 and 28 gauge as well as .410 bore with 24- to 30-inch barrels and checkered walnut furniture, the Falconet was marketed as a handy, fast-handling field and clay-target gun. Dedicated Skeet and Trap versions were also produced.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2950 g (104.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1150 mm (45.28") |
| Barrel Length | 686 mm (27.01") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Selective |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Barrels
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Barrel Selector
- Features: Over Under Barrels, Automatic Ejectors, Single Selective Trigger, Engraved Alloy Receiver, Ventilated Rib, Checkered Walnut Stock
Variants
- Franchi Falconet Skeet - Skeet
- Franchi Falconet Trap - Trap
Production
Production years: 1968-1975
Field, Skeet and Trap variants produced at Franchi's Brescia works; later reused as a model name for a modern over-and-under.
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Discontinued: 1975
Notes
Specifications listed are representative of a 12-gauge Falconet Field with a 2 3/4-inch (70 mm) chamber and 27-inch (686 mm) barrels; barrel lengths ranged 24-30 inches and weight varied by gauge and barrel length (roughly 2.9-3.0 kg for 12 gauge). The Falconet name was later revived by Franchi for a modern alloy-receiver over-and-under (sold in the U.S. as the Instinct SL); this entry covers the original 1968-1975 model.
Background
The Falconet took its place in Franchi's tradition of naming guns for birds of prey, the 'little falcon' badge reflecting the gun's deliberately light, quick-pointing alloy-framed design.