Though it looked strange, in fact it was extremely comfortable in the hand with the single-action being smooth and easy to operate. Because the stocks and steel backstrap continued right up to the recoil shield, the hammer was mounted internally, the rounded spur alone protruding from the top of the action.
The checkered walnut grip panels extended over about 50 percent of the gun’s overall length, their style hearkening back to that seen on many of Devisme’s elegant single-shot target pistols. Possessed of a sleek guise, the rather delicate-appearing silhouette of Devisme’s new arm, termed by modern collectors the “Model 1854/55,” belied a sturdy, well-thought-out mechanism and structure. In 1854, he patented a unique six-shot single action, many features of which were considerable departures from the works of Messrs. With Englishman Robert Adams’ successful challenge in 1851 to Samuel Colt’s monopoly on the revolver trade in Europe, Devisme, who had devised an early self-cocking repeater in the 1830s, was encouraged to proceed with his own design. The front was adjustable for windage while the rear was stationary. The sighting system consists of an ornate front beaded post and curiously-configured semi-peep notch rear. Devisme wares were prized by the aristocracy, military officers and the bourgeoisie. Quickly establishing himself as a purveyor of high-grade goods, his business took off and, in relatively short order, he became one of the most renowned French makers of the mid-19th century. Innovation was a Devisme byword and a number of fascinating items were designed and made by the company, including the principal subject of this article, a unique line of early percussion revolvers.īorn in 1806, Louis François-Devisme (pronounced (“De-Veme”) began his gunsmithing career in 1834 when he opened a shop on 36 Boulevarde des Italiens in Paris. In many cases, items that required greater production were farmed out to others, notably the respected Belgian maker Auguste Francotte.
A good deal of its output, while always of the highest quality, was humbler and more utilitarian. Not all of the establishment’s offerings, however, were of Fabergé-like appearance. With its smooth lines, elegant handling characteristics and quixotic loading system, the Model 1854/55 Devisme revolver is a prime example of superb French 19th century style. The firm’s products were regular award-winners at a large number of international exhibitions and trade shows, also. Devisme wares, ranging from opulent dueling and target pistols to lavishly-appointed swords, knives and accessories, were sought-after worldwide. The choice of these arms belonging to such prominent Southern leaders was no accident.
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