Lefaucheux Model 1854
Lefaucheux · Revolver · Out Of Production · 1854
Also known as: M1854 Cavalry Model, Lefaucheux Pinfire Revolver
Overview
The Lefaucheux Model 1854 was a six-shot, open-frame 12mm pinfire revolver designed by Eugene Lefaucheux. Patented in 1854, it was the first revolver firing a self-contained metallic cartridge to be adopted by a national government, and the design preceded the French Navy's Model 1858. It was widely exported and license-produced in Liege.
Specifications
| Overall Length | 298 mm (11.73") |
| Barrel Length | 155 mm (6.10") |
| Action Type | Single Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Cylinder |
| Muzzle Velocity | 100 m/s (328 fps) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
Calibers
- 12mm Lefaucheux Pinfire · primary — also known as 12mm Pinfire, 12mm Lefaucheux
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Features: Open Frame, Pinfire Cartridge, Hinged Loading Gate, Ejector Rod
Service history
Operators
- French Armed Forces
- Union Army
- Confederate States Army
Conflicts
- American Civil War (1861-1865)
Production
Production years: 1854-1890s
By 1860 the Lefaucheux factory reportedly produced around 1,200 revolvers per week
Origin
Country of origin: France
Designer: Eugene Lefaucheux
Notes
Distinct from the later Model 1858 'de Marine' adopted by the French Navy. Civilian patterns were often double-action while the military/cavalry pattern was single-action. Imported in quantity by both Union and Confederate forces during the American Civil War.
Background
George Schuyler procured roughly 10,000 Lefaucheux revolvers from Paris for the U.S. government, making the pinfire one of the most significant imported sidearms of the American Civil War.