Française d'Armes et Cycles (Manufrance) Modèle 1892 8mm Lebel DA/SA Revolver, 4.5 in Barrel
This commercial Manufrance 1892-pattern revolver stands out for its Saint-Étienne markings, forged-steel construction, and classic French service layout in 8mm Lebel. It features the distinctive right-swinging, long-fluted cylinder with a checkered thumb latch, an octagonal forward barrel section with a short, spring-return ejector rod actuated by a knurled knob just ahead of the cylinder, and a hinged left sideplate for direct lockwork access. Clear rollmarks include "Manufacture Française d'Armes et Cycles – Saint-Étienne," "Acier Forgé" on the sideplate, and "Mle 1892" on the barrel top.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The exterior shows scratches and blemishes with minor finish wear and areas of light pitting consistent with age and use. The bore is clean and bright.
What's Included
- Française d'Armes et Cycles de Saint-Étienne Modèle 1892 revolver chambered in 8mm Lebel
Built on a forged-steel frame and marked "Acier Forgé," this revolver reflects Manufrance’s commercial production of the 1892 pattern. The top of the barrel is marked "Mle 1892," and the right side of the barrel shank carries proof/inspection marks, providing clear, verifiable identifiers.
The mechanism is double-action/single-action with a right-swinging, six-shot, long-fluted cylinder operated by a checkered thumb latch. A short, spring-return ejector rod, actuated by a knurled knob positioned just ahead of the cylinder, handles case ejection. The hinged left sideplate offers straightforward access to the lockwork.
The 4.5 in barrel includes an octagonal forward section and fixed iron sights: a front blade paired with a rear U-notch milled into the topstrap. These elements match the traditional layout associated with the pattern.
Original-style details include straw-colored hammer and trigger, a steel butt cap with a central lanyard hole, and two-piece checkered walnut grips with a bordered pattern. The revolver is full-size and retains the authentic profile of the 1892 design.