copyright William Marion 2008
Black Powder Revolver
The Online Magazine and Resource for Black Powder Revolvers
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March 2006 Edition
Page 2
March 2006 Page 3
March 2006
Le Mat History Continued
to be of poor quality, Le Mat went to England and contracted with the Birmingham Small Arms Company who was able to produce Le Mat’s design to his exacting standards.  The revolvers were then smuggled through the Union blockade and to the Confederate Army.  The original model Le Mat revolver was produced in .40 caliber with an 18 gauge shotgun barrel.  After seeing the Le Mats purchased by the Army, the Confederate Navy contracted for a .35-caliber pistol with a 28-gauge shotgun barrel. Only a few of the Navy version were produced.  By the end of the War, between 2500 and 3,000 Le Mat's were produced for the Confederacy.  Several reproductions are available and are generally more expensive that other replica revolvers of the period.  Given the uniqueness of this firearm and the small number produced, original Le Mat’s have been quoted in the $10,000 to $20,000 range.  So if you see one on the bottom shelf of a pawn shop, it may be worth a second look.