At first glance, this revolver looks very similar to the pinfire revolvers that were imported from France for use during the Civil War, however, on closer inspection several differences stand out. For one, this pistol is center fire although pinfire Javelle revolvers are also seen. This pistol also has an ornate curved break lever mounted beneath the barrel that is not seen on those commonly imported. When the lever is pulled to the right the barrel is allowed to tip forward and a jaw below the breech opens freeing the cylinder pin and allowing the removal of the cylinder for reloading. On the hinge at the front of the frame it is marked "JAVELLE M. St. ETIENNE" in an arch over "BTE S.G.D.G." Additional markings include "91" on the left side of the trigger, the front face of the cylinder, and on the top of the grip under the tang which has a "7" marked on the underside. A partially faded "S" also appears after the marking on the trigger. No additional markings are visible. The double action trigger fires the revolver when it comes in contact with a smaller secondary trigger at the back of the trigger guard. The cylinder is unfluted and chambered for six 12 mm (.47 cal) centerfire cartridges. The hammer spur is checkered as is the tip of the break lever. It is fitted with a smooth one piece grip with knuckle at the top and a lanyard ring at the bottom as well as a blade front and notch rear sights fixed on the top of the barrel.

Fine. The revolver retains 30% of the original blue finish with a mixture of gray and brown patinas on the balance with some patches of pitting and scattered scratches. The grips are very good with a series of light scratches. The action could use some attention as it does not always function properly due to weak trigger return spring. Overall a fine and very interesting French revolver from the 19th century.