1860 LeMat Grapeshot Revolver: A Firearm of Unique Design
The 1860 LeMat Grapeshot Revolver is a remarkable firearm, instantly recognizable by its distinctive two-barrel configuration. This design, innovative for its time, was intended to provide the user with the versatility of both a pistol and a shotgun in a single weapon. The upper barrel is a smoothbore shotgun, ideal for close-range engagements with its ability to fire a spread of buckshot or grapeshot. The lower barrel is a rifled pistol barrel, chambered in .36 caliber, offering greater accuracy at longer distances.
The Cylinder and Hammer
The revolver’s cylinder, holding nine .36 caliber cartridges, is cleverly arranged around the central shotgun barrel. This allows for a compact design while maintaining a respectable ammunition capacity. The hammer mechanism incorporates a pivoting firing pin, enabling the user to select which barrel to fire with a simple adjustment. This ingenious feature further enhances the firearm’s adaptability in various combat scenarios.
Key Features
- Two Barrels: This revolver is easily distinguished by its two barrels. The top barrel is a smoothbore shotgun barrel, while the bottom barrel is a rifled barrel chambered for .36 caliber cartridges.
- Cylinder: The cylinder holds nine rounds of .36 caliber ammunition, arranged around the central shotgun barrel.
- Hammer Mechanism: The hammer has a pivoting firing pin, allowing the user to select between firing the revolver or the shotgun barrel.
- Loading Lever: The revolver is loaded via a hinged loading lever located under the barrel.
- Grips: The revolver has wooden grips, which appear to be worn and aged in the image, consistent with a firearm of this age.
- Finish: The revolver exhibits a well-worn patina finish, indicative of its age and use.
Loading and Handling
Loading the LeMat revolver is accomplished using a hinged lever located under the barrel. This lever operates the loading gate, allowing for the insertion of individual cartridges into the cylinder. The revolver’s wooden grips, though worn and aged, provide a comfortable and secure hold. The overall finish of the weapon displays a well-developed patina, a testament to its history and use.
The LeMat revolver served a notable role in the American Civil War. It was particularly favored by Confederate cavalry officers, who appreciated its versatility in close-quarters combat and its potential to deliver a devastating shotgun blast when facing multiple opponents. Although not widely adopted, the LeMat remains a fascinating and historically significant example of 19th-century firearm technology.
A Collector’s Item
Today, the 1860 LeMat Grapeshot Revolver is a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its rarity, historical significance, and unique design features make it a prized possession for firearm enthusiasts and historians alike. Each LeMat revolver tells a story of innovation, conflict, and the enduring human fascination with firearms.
