Galand Le Novo
Galand · Revolver · Out Of Production
Also known as: Le Novo, Galand Novo, Novo
Overview
The Galand Le Novo is a tiny double-action folding-grip pocket revolver made by the Parisian gunmaker Galand around the turn of the 20th century. Chambered for the diminutive 6.35mm (.25 ACP) cartridge, it holds five rounds in a hollowed-out cylinder and was designed above all for concealment: it has an enclosed, snag-free hammer, a folding trigger, and an all-metal grip that folds flat against the frame so the whole revolver forms a smooth, pocketable package. Marketed as a ladies' and gentleman's self-defence arm, it was typically nickel-plated with decorative repousse metal grip panels bearing the 'NOVO' name.
Specifications
| Barrel Length | 29 mm (1.14") |
| Action Type | Double Action Revolver |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Revolving Cylinder |
| Effective Range | 5 m (5 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Steel |
| Finish | Nickel |
Calibers
- .25 ACP · primary — also known as 6.35x16mm Browning, 6.35mm Browning, .25 Auto
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Loading Gate Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Double Action Only Trigger, Shrouded Hammer
- Features: Concealed Hammer, Folding Trigger, Folding Grip, Pocket Size, All Metal Construction, Snag Free Design
Production
Commercial pocket revolver produced by Galand in Paris circa the late 19th and early 20th century; total production not recorded.
Origin
Country of origin: France
Designer: Charles-Francois Galand
Notes
Individual specimens vary; the Le Novo was a commercial pocket revolver rather than a military arm, so few standardized measurements were recorded. The 1 1/8 inch (approx. 29mm) round barrel and 5-shot Liege-proofed cylinder are documented in surviving auction examples. Some pieces are retailer- or distributor-marked (e.g. 'DD Oury Bte').
Background
The Le Novo pushed the folding-grip pocket revolver to its most compact extreme: with its hammer shrouded, its trigger folded and its metal grip panels swung shut, the whole gun collapses into a flat, snag-free slab that slips into a waistcoat pocket or a lady's purse without catching on the lining.