Automatic Repeating Pistol Known As The ‘gaulois’ No. 3, With Leather Holster

Automatic repeating pistol known as the ‘GAULOIS’ No. 3, with leather holster
France
19th century
Steel and ambroine
Overall length: 13 cm; Barrel length: 4.2 cm
Calibre: 8 mm

Round, rifled barrel, polished; steel front sight; marked on the top ‘GAULOIS’ and monogrammed ‘MF’; on the underside is the serial number “5394”.
Nickel-plated steel frame, chiselled with foliage, marked on the right-hand side “MANUFACTURE FRANCAISE SAINT-ETIENNE”, “ARMES ET CYCLES” in two separate circles; on the left-hand side are “SURETÉ”, ‘FEU’ and ‘DÉCHARGEMENT ET DÉMONTAGE’ each in their own cartouches; and engraved on the top ‘N°3 Cal.8 m/m’.
Marbled ambroine grip.
The serial number ‘5394’ is found on the inside of the frame and the cover plate.
Inspection marks.

Fawn-coloured leather case with two compartments opening at each end. One side for the pistol and the other for storing ammunition.

Invention by Etienne MIMARD and Pierre BLACHON, founders of the Manufacture française d'armes et cycles de Saint-Etienne.

Ref.: 6859

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

This collector’s weapon is classified as a Category D collector’s weapon under Article L311-2 of the Internal Security Code. Its acquisition and possession are unrestricted. Please note that its sale to minors is prohibited.