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BELGIAN GALAND MODEL 1868 MILITARY REVOLVER.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:325.00 USD Estimated At:650.00 - 900.00 USD
BELGIAN GALAND MODEL 1868 MILITARY REVOLVER.

Cal. 9mm. S# 18548. Bbl. 3 3/4" with flat topped rib having semi circular sight blade. Mfg. in Belgium from late 1860's to early 1870's as double action. Patented in 1868; that is the normal model designation although some use 1870. Galand was French inventor who worked primarily in Belgium and France. The revolver design was also produced in England. Open top frame that was changed to closed top via 1872 patent. Offered in 9mm for military use and 12mm for civilians. Significant order to Russia in early 1870's. Front of cylinder has Leige proof without crown as used 1811-1892; 1893 onward had crown. The 1 of the serial number is on the barrel extension and also on the cylinder, extractor plate, link from lever to barrel and on the back of both border checkered wood grips; 1 may likely be an assembly number. References show many examples of top of backstrap; this one is less pronounced than most. Finely blued finish with polished in the white trigger and hammer. Capped butt with lanyard loop. Finely made with attention to fit and finish. CONDITION: very good overall having some light and peppery oxidation mostly on top of barrel. Finish is far superior to most examples found by internet search. Front lever pivot screw is a finger tight replacement of too short a length. Some screws retain bright fire blue. Grips have very minimal handling marks, but active spots of oxidation on backstrap. Bright bore with distinct rifling having very minimal wear and some areas of cleaned light pitting. (01-22297/NW). ANTIQUE. $650-900.