At this time when the rear-loading weapon seems destined to revolutionize the hunting gun, and amidst the hesitation that exists in adopting new things, it is indispensable to combat these common prejudices that men of status give their opinion on this system. Questioned on this point, I answer candidly that the hinge-action gun, known as Lefaucheux, is the one which, to this day, has offered the most complete closure solidity, since it is the one that provides the most drawing power (1), and that by means of the copper base, which the cartridge is furnished with at the rear, all spitting becomes impossible. As for the range, the various experiments that I have done, in comparison with the percussion gun, have given me for the lead a result at least equal, and far superior for the bullet, since it is forced. One of the great advantages of said gun is still that of never making false charges, and of never having space between the powder and the projectile, an accident which the best barrels rarely withstand. Thus, safety and promptness in loading, ease of loading with the ramrod at will, range at least equal; these are the main advantages that I recognize in the hinge-action gun, and which have been confirmed to me by all the hunters to whom I have delivered these guns.
Devisme, Gunsmith in Paris.
