Original French 19th Century Unique Massive 20-Shot Trap Revolver with Original 1927 Bannerman’s Advertisement – Circa 1880 Original Items

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. This curious and commanding revolver, with a 20-shot cylinder, is void of any markings. We have found a similar example in a 1927 Bannerman’s catalog advertisement, which states it was found in an old shop in Paris. This is one of the most unique firearms we have ever come across.

Based on its peculiar design and assumptions we can make, this appears to be a trap-gun, meant to be hooked up to a tripwire or similar device that would connect to the hole on the trigger, which both cocks and releases the hammer as well as rotating the cylinder. The revolver is break-action, allowing for the 20 shots to be reloaded easier. This example retains a single spent casing in one of its chambers, which is marked FC 410. The casing is stuck in the chamber. However, the barrel and chambers measure roughly .45 caliber, so the .410 round may have been someone’s shoddy attempt at trying to fire it.

The exact example in the Bannerman’s catalog is one that has surfaced online recently, with Belgian proof markings including an ELG in a crowned oval, the post-1893 mark for “Epreuve de Liege” or Proof of Liege. It also has a Liege Proof House controller (inspector) mark of a spangled W. Based on this, we believe this example to have been another trial variation of this design, which would make sense given there are no markings.

The revolver is in fair shape overall, and has a great deal of pitting across the exterior. The barrel is 11⅞” long, with an overall length of roughly 17”. The bore is smooth, and does not show evidence of having ever been rifled. 

The page from the 1927 Francis Bannerman catalog of military surplus included reads:

 “20 Shot Revolver found in old shop in Paris, bore is about 3/8, length, 15 inches, weight is about 6 pounds. Rare piece. Sold to collector.”

This is one of the most unique revolvers we have ever offered, and we likely won’t ever see another like it. Perfect for any collection of peculiar and abnormal firearms. Comes ready for further research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: c. 1880
Caliber: .45 ~
Ammunition Type: Cartridge
Barrel Length: 11⅞ inches
Overall Length: 17 inches
Action: Double
Feed System: 20 Shot Revolver

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.