Though patented and used in 1856, the distinctive LeMat revolvers were most famously used during the Civil War by notable Confederates, including J.E.B. Stuart. Around 1,500 others were also ordered for use by the CSA Army and Navy. Jean Alexandre LeMat of New Orleans designed these revolvers with cavalry in mind, and the combination of a high capacity cylinder and central smoothbore barrel for shot was well-suited for running battles.