From Flintlock to Lefaucheux: Reviving the Gunsmith’s Art in Saint-Étienne

In mid-19th century Saint-Étienne, France, the Lefaucheux breechloader revolutionized firearms, enhancing craftsmanship among gunsmiths. This innovation revived demand for precise artisanal skills, which had waned with the simpler percussion guns. Ultimately, the breechloader's success preserved the city's legacy in arms making, balancing technology with traditional craftsmanship.