Today we’re look at the two main French military centerfire revolvers – the model 1873 and model 1892. These both served for many decades with French troop around the world, and they’re interesting designs. I may have been dubious at first, but I have to say that aside form the weak cartridge I wouldn’t object carry either one compared to any of their contemporaries.
We would like to thank Greg at Allegheny Arsenal for providing the model 1873 for this video. You can see Allegheny’s web site over on the sidebar, at mg34.com – they have some great parts and accessories for older machine guns.
French Model 1873 revolver in 11mm with an assortment of ammunition
French Model 1892 revolver in 8mm with an assortment of ammunition
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What type of round is that long one in the 1873 picture? The first one in the line.
Could you commit on the various cartridges displayed in the pictures?
Dean from Idaho
What is the third from left 11mm cartridge? Seems like it’s rimless and it looks like a gauge rather than a cartridge.
How is the far left 11mm cartridge being loaded into the cylinder (I guess it’s significantly longer)?
I really like my 1892. Both are interesting designs. Thanks for the video.
The third from the left. is that a small shotgun shell?
more info on this one please! 
The 1873 is also an iconic movie weapon (for me at least) since Brendan Fraser prominently used two of them (bored and restricted to .45 blank) in ‘The Mummy’ (1998).
Question. Is there a configuration of this pistol out there that can shoot our modern amo like 38 special. I think it’s a very cool piece of history. Thanks
Sorry, but not that I know of.
I have a Model 1873 French revolver. Where can I get
11mm ammo for my revolver. Thanks for your reply in
advance.
Sorry, Henry, but I don’t know of a source other than keeping an eye on GunBroker.
I recently got an 1892 revolver, 8mm, I think, that was taken off a German soldier by my father-in-law during WW2. He got it in 1945 and it shows a manufacture date on the barrel of 1894. It is in remarkable condition and will stay in my family as a part of our history. Pretty cool.