Pinfire Links
Your definitive source for all things pinfire! Dive deep into the fascinating world of antique firearms and ammunition with us. From detailed articles about the history and intricacies of pinfire guns to reliable sources where you can acquire these vintage beauties and their ammo. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a budding enthusiast, or just curious about the world of antique firearms, out sites have something to ignite your interest. Load up on knowledge and let your passion for vintage armory fire away!
Pinfire
Did you know that nearly 14,000 Lefaucheux Model 1854 pinfire revolvers were purchased by the Union during the American Civil War? These revolvers, like the one pictured here, were some of the first to use self-contained cartridges, making them faster to reload and more reliable than many older designs.
In 1862, units like the 2nd Kansas Cavalry were issued similar 12mm pinfire revolvers, imported from France to supply the Union Army with more modern firearms. While we don’t have detailed records for every cartridge or revolver, battlefield excavations and historical documents reveal that pinfire technology saw widespread use during the war. The box of cartridges next to this revolver adds another layer to the story, representing the type of ammunition that would have accompanied these weapons on the front lines.
Pinfire
I haven’t had any 15mm pinfire cartridges for sale for a long time and added some to the site today!
Pinfire
The Veteran Huntsman: Poised with Pinfire and Faithful Pair
In this classic portrait, an experienced huntsman is seated, exuding the composed confidence of one well-versed in the rituals of the hunt. His attire is traditional and functional, with a durable tweed jacket buttoned snugly over a vest, while his trousers and sturdy boots suggest an imminent journey outdoors. Clasped firmly in his grasp is a Lefaucheux pinfire shotgun, a fine example of the period’s innovative gunmaking, revealing the shooter’s preference for established quality and craftsmanship.
Flanking the gentleman are two golden retrievers, their intelligent eyes and calm stances indicating years of trust and companionship in the field. Their unwavering attention and readiness reflect a deep connection with their master, a relationship built upon mutual respect and shared experiences.
The plain studio setting places the focus squarely on the trio, highlighting the central figure’s role as the linchpin in this alliance. The simplicity of the background serves to draw out the rich textures of the man’s attire, the sleek lines of the shotgun, and the glossy coats of his canine partners, creating a tableau of serene confidence and preparedness.
Pinfire
Invented by Casimir Lefaucheux and patented in 1833, this early shotgun, bearing the serial number 3512, dates to after 1835, following Lefaucheux’s patent addition of the pinfire cartridge. Lefaucheux’s design introduced a breech-loading mechanism, a revolutionary departure from the muzzle-loading firearms that were standard at the time. The patent detailed a pinfire system, where the cartridge contained its own ignition source, allowing for quicker and more reliable firing.
The shotgun features finely engraved metalwork and a carefully crafted wooden stock, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation. The barrel inscription, "INVENTION LEFAUCHEUX," attests to its authenticity and historical importance. This model includes an elegant leaf-pattern engraving, reflecting Lefaucheux’s attention to both functionality and aesthetic detail. The action is controlled by an under-barrel lever that rotates sideways, a hallmark of Lefaucheux’s design, which allowed for easier reloading and improved the overall handling of the firearm.
Pinfire
The Lefaucheux Model 1854 revolver, bearing serial number LF 33320, belonged to John Lynn, a soldier in the 2nd Kansas Cavalry during the American Civil War. This revolver exemplifies significant firearm advancements with its pinfire mechanism. Preserved at The Lefaucheux Museum, it represents both technological progress and personal bravery of the era.
Pinfire
During the American Civil War, the demand for pinfire cartridges grew significantly, leading to the involvement of various American manufacturers. This box of 24 metallic cartridges for the Lefaucheux pistol, supplied by W.P. Wilstach & Co. of Philadelphia, showcases the vital role they played. Partnering with Allen & Wheelock, Wilstach helped ensure that the Union Army’s needs were met. This box represents a key piece of history, highlighting the contributions and challenges faced by suppliers during this critical period.
Pinfire
Just two days left on this fundraiser to support the brand new Lefaucheux Museum. Currently 2 people (of the 22,000 followers of this page!!) have donated.
It is tax deductible (they email you all the receipts) and I think it is a really worthy cause to really help jump start the preservation of some of this important information.
www.facebook.com/donate/877328194232420/1012863824176859/
Pinfire
Hey @followers! Continuing from our earlier post about one of the earliest pinfire shotguns manufactured in 1835, here’s another detailed look at this exquisite piece. Notice the intricate engravings and the unique design that make it a true collector’s item. Devisme, the successor to Deboubert, was one of the original licensees of Lefaucheux’s patented "hinge gun" technology.
Did you know Alexandre Dumas, one of the most famed French authors, owned a Devisme Lefaucheux gun just like this? I am working on some new research around this and will share it soon.
Pinfire
A beautiful example of one of the earliest pinfire shotguns — manufactured in 1835; the same year the pinfire cartridge was introduced!
Devisme, the successor to Deboubert, was one of the original licensees of Lefaucheux’s patented technology for his new breech loading “hinge gun.”
Pinfire
For many years, I have dedicated myself to researching and preserving pinfire guns and cartridges—an often overlooked yet pivotal part of firearms history. These innovations were crucial in developing modern breech-loading guns and ammunition.
With your support, I founded The Lefaucheux Museum, a nonprofit dedicated to continuing this mission and reaching beyond what I could achieve alone. We have built a passionate community of thousands who appreciate this topic, and I now invite you to help us grow. Your donations will enable us to create a sustainable platform for sharing this invaluable knowledge globally.
Visit our museum to explore our extensive archives, featuring detailed exhibits on Lefaucheux firearms, pinfire cartridges, and historical documents. We are constantly expanding our collection with new research and artifacts.
Your contribution, no matter the size, will significantly impact our ability to maintain and enhance our resources. Join us in preserving and celebrating the ingenuity of the Lefaucheux legacy. Thank you for your support!