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Create my profile now!Largest selection of genuine antique weapons for sale in UK. See our website andrewbottomley.com. Ref 2548. A RARE AND DESIRABLE CONFEDERATE Le-MAT REVOLVER. One of the most desirable and important Confederate revolvers on the market today, this rare transitional First-Second Model LeMat revolver is all matching numbers and in good working order. The LeMat “Grapeshot” revolver was invented by Dr. Jean Alexandre Francois LeMat of New Orleans, Louisiana circa 1856 and is a 9-shot, .42 caliber percussion revolver which features a massive and unique secondary 16 gauge smooth bore barrel capable of firing grapeshot. A pivoting striker on the hammer is used to select the “shotgun” barrel. Carried by the likes of Confederate Generals such as J.E.B. Stuart and P. G. T. Beauregard, these finely crafted handguns are incredibly rare and generally the centre-piece of any Civil War revolver collection. This LeMat was produced in Paris France from mid 1862 to very early 1863 and features a spurred trigger guard, octagon barrel and a swivel lanyard ring which is attached to the butt cap. Manufactured in iron, these revolvers all have chequered walnut two-piece grips. This uncommon, distinctive revolver exhibits most of the major features of the Second Model LeMat but retains the First Model style spurred trigger guard. The early 2nd model barrel has a deep and crisp marking which reads “COL. LeMat BTE. s.g.d.g. PARIS” across the top barrel flat in fancy script. Very few of the transitional models are known and this revolver represents a rare opportunity to obtain one. Overall condition is Very Good. No original blued finish remains but all iron parts have evenly aged to a mellow grey patina and the grips show light wear consistent with period use of the handgun. There is a hairline surface crack along one cylinder, a common problem with the early model Paris made weapons. This weapon has a replacement front sight and loading lever assembly, as many do. The loading lever was cumbersome and often removed and lost in the field. Ref 2548. This is an obsolete antique item and is sold as a collectors item only. No Licence is required in the United Kingdom. If you wish to purchase this item please visit our website andrewbottomley.com where you can pay by credit/debit card. Established 1968.