Eugène Lefaucheux Model 1862 “Triple Action” Revolver with Patent No. 55,784 Mechanism (12mm Pinfire)

Description

Patented on 27 September 1862 and granted on 2 December of the same year under French patent no. 55,784, this revolver by Eugène Lefaucheux represents a sophisticated evolution of the pinfire system, introducing what Lefaucheux termed a "triple action" mechanism. The innovation did not concern itself with re-inventing single or double action mechanics, but rather with introducing a third operative state for the hammer. In this third state, the hammer could be cocked and held via trigger action, without immediately releasing, offering a unique balance between rapidity and control.

The revolver operates in three distinct modes: conventional single action, standard double action, and a third behavior in which the trigger can be used to cock the hammer to a held position, either partial or full, without firing. This was achieved through a mechanically ingenious system involving a self-springing sear (part A) and an intermediary rod (part B) activated by a trigger projection. The hammer features a catch notch (x) allowing it to be held under tension when cocked via the trigger. This grants the shooter a level of control akin to single action, while maintaining the speed and accessibility of trigger-cocking. The patent emphasizes ease of manufacture and visible mechanical simplicity, avoiding deeply nested internal linkages.

This example, chambered in 12mm pinfire, follows the mature Lefaucheux design language. It features a robust iron frame, solid six-chamber cylinder with vertical inspection slots and locking notches, a right-side loading gate, and an ejector rod mounted under the barrel. Serial number LF 12197 is deeply stamped on the frame. The walnut grip is rounded, with a lanyard ring fitted at the base. The revolver is housed in its original brown leather flap holster, secured by a rounded closure button that appears to be ivory or bone. The holster ends just below the grip frame, leaving the wooden grip exposed for quick access. Its construction reflects practical 19th-century design priorities, balancing protection with ease of draw. The mechanism embodies Lefaucheux’s effort to integrate mechanical clarity with practical control, offering a distinct alternative to conventional single and double action systems within the evolving landscape of 19th-century revolver design.