A unique and respected close-quarters combat sidearm
Fires both single bullets and buckshot
N-SSA approved
The mid-1800s were a time in American history that gave birth to a number of innovative firearm designs, and this truly unique, unusual sidearm was also known as the "Grape Shot Revolver." Developed in New Orleans in 1856 by Dr. Jean LeMat and backed by Pierre G.T. Beauregard, who was to become a general with the Confederacy. Roughly 2,900 were produced. An accurate reproduction of the First Model LeMat, our Cavalry version has a nine-shot, .44-caliber cylinder and rifled 6-3/4" barrel. What sets it apart from other revolver designs is the 20-gauge, .645" diameter 5-7/8" smoothbore barrel, originally intended for firing buckshot. Both are fired by a pivoting striker. In combat, the firepower from the pistol barrel plus a hefty dose of "blue whistlers" made the LeMat a fearsome weapon to face. Accurate details like the swivel lanyard ring and trigger guard spur duplicate those found on originals. The loading lever is mounted on the left side. N-SSA approved. Checkered Walnut grips. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a classic firearm that was part of the transition from single-shot to repeating arms. Barrel length: 6-3/4". Overall length: 13-1/4". Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz.
What a pistol. Expensive yes, extravagant yes, very possibly the most awesome weapon ever yes. The LeMat is more fun than I have ever had with a pistol, there is nothing like filling a target full of 9 .44 cal rounds and then finishing it off with a helping of buckshot. This weapon is very high quality and accurate, the weight and sights takes a bit to become accustom with; although then again I am sure you could club something with it. Overall I am very pleased and would recommend it.
It is quite difficult to disassemble fully and clean because it is screwed together very tightly and requires a special screw bit to do so. I would use it much more often if I could break it down easier.
I got a mould for a 20 gauge ball and cast my own. It is pretty wild blasting that out of the shot barrel.
The accuracy seems to be pretty good for the most part.
There are various problems that seem to be the norm with the Lemat that perhaps come with the territory of this strangely designed pistol.
I would recommend this to any one that wants to spend the cash and wants it.
The revolver is a unique and interesting weapon. I had no problem loading either the revolver or the grape-shot barrel. For the revolver, it has a levering system that loads the cylinders, be sure to use the correct ball size. If you attempt a larger size (larger than .451) you could slightly bend the lever handle. As for the little clip that holds the lever handle and ramrod for the shot barrel, not to impressed. It was a little frail for the holding of the rod and snapped off. I took a piece of brass band and made me one in about 15 minutes, no sweat and actually that happened to the originals. All in all, I thought it was pretty accurate and soon the envy of all my friends.