Metadata
Object Type
Title
Lefaucheux Advertisement, 1836: Addressing Safety Rumors and Promoting Quality
Summary
An 1836 advertisement from 'Courrier du Midi', focusing on the quality and safety record of Lefaucheux rifles amidst public concerns about firearm accidents.
Description
This advertisement from the July 26, 1836 edition of 'Courrier du Midi' offers a comprehensive view of the Lefaucheux rifles during a period of public scrutiny over firearm safety. It addresses concerns about accidents associated with the Lefaucheux rifle, clarifying the rarity of such incidents and attributing rumors of danger to competitive rivalries. The advertisement reassures the public about the safety and reliability of Lefaucheux rifles, which were in wide circulation in France. Additionally, it details various models and their features, such as steel ribbons and damascus patterns, and provides pricing information. The endorsement from Count de Lajuniais is included, emphasizing the rifles' esteem among the elite.
The safety concerns are addressed as follows:
"There has often been much made of the accidents occurring in the use of the Lefaucheux rifle; it is true and significant that out of 6,000 weapons of this system circulating in France, two or three may have caused either an accident that projected the entire bullet and casing, or accidents that have been talked about but were denied by those who were said to be killed. These rumors have been spread by clumsy rivalries and do not alter the just value appreciated by everyone."
Significance
This historical advertisement is notable not only for its promotion of Lefaucheux rifles but also for its contextual importance in addressing safety concerns of the era. By openly discussing the rumors and clarifying the record, the advertisement reflects the Lefaucheux family's commitment to quality and safety in their firearms. It provides insights into the challenges faced by 19th-century firearm manufacturers and the importance of public perception in the industry. This document is a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of firearm safety, the marketing strategies of the time, and the enduring impact of the Lefaucheux family on the development and perception of firearms.
Year Made
1836
Country
France
Firearm Designer and Influential System
Casimir Lefaucheux
Firearm Type/Category
Pinfire Shotgun | Pinfire Pistol