Introduction to the 1872 Swiss Revolver (aka Ordonnanzrevolver 1872)
The 1872 Swiss Revolver, also known as the Model 1872 or M1872 or the Ordonnanzrevolver 1872 or revolver d'ordonnance modèle 1872, is a single-action revolver that was developed in Switzerland in the early 1870s. Designed and produced by the Swiss Federal Armory in Bern, this revolver became the standard sidearm for the Swiss army and remained in service for several decades.
History
The Model 1872 Swiss Revolver was developed as a response to the Swiss army's need for a modern, cartridge-firing sidearm. Previously, Swiss troops were equipped with muzzle-loading pistols, which were slow to reload and not suitable for modern warfare. The development of the 1872 Swiss Revolver was part of a broader effort to modernize the Swiss military.
The revolver was heavily influenced by the French Chamelot-Delvigne Model 1873, but it featured several design modifications to suit the specific needs of the Swiss military. It was officially adopted by the Swiss army in 1872, replacing the older muzzle-loading pistols. The Model 1872 revolver continued to serve as the standard-issue sidearm for Swiss troops until it was eventually replaced by the Schmidt-Rubin Model 1882 revolver.
Design
The 1872 Swiss Revolver is a single-action, six-shot revolver chambered for the 10.4×38mm Swiss Ordnance cartridge, also known as the 10.4mm Swiss Revolver cartridge. This cartridge was a rimfire round and was considered relatively weak in comparison to other contemporary military cartridges.
The revolver featured a 4.5-inch (114mm) octagonal barrel, fixed front sight, and adjustable rear sight for elevation. The weapon's overall length was 11.4 inches (290mm), and it weighed approximately 2.3 pounds (1.04 kg) unloaded.
A hinged loading gate on the right side of the frame allowed for easy loading and unloading of cartridges. The revolver was equipped with an ejector rod, located beneath the barrel, which was used to manually eject spent casings. One of the unique features of the 1872 Swiss Revolver was its hammer-block safety, which prevented the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger was pulled, reducing the risk of accidental discharges.
Usage
The Model 1872 revolver was primarily used by the Swiss army, serving as the standard-issue sidearm for officers and non-commissioned officers. The revolver was not involved in any major conflicts, as Switzerland maintained a policy of neutrality during this period. However, it played a role in maintaining order and security within Switzerland's borders.
Apart from military use, the 1872 Swiss Revolver was also adopted by Swiss police forces and was exported to several other countries. It continued to see service in various capacities until the early 20th century when more modern sidearms replaced it.
Legacy
The 1872 Swiss Revolver holds a significant place in firearm history as one of the early cartridge-firing revolvers used by a European military. It was an important step in the modernization of the Swiss military and represented a shift away from muzzle-loading pistols. Today, the Model 1872 revolver is a collector's item, valued for its historical significance and unique design features.
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