Arming God's Battalions: a Papal States Rolling Block

Published on February 13, 2023
Duration: 14:55

This guide details the identification and basic handling of the rare Papal States Remington Rolling Block rifle, a 12.7x45mm single-shot firearm produced by the Nagant brothers. It covers key markings, caliber, sights, and the rolling block action, emphasizing historical context and collector significance. Instruction is provided by Ian McCollum, demonstrating high expertise in historical firearms and their mechanics.

Quick Summary

The Papal Remington Rolling Block rifle, a Mousqueton de Gendarmerie variant, was made for the Papal States in 1869 by the Nagant brothers. It features a single-shot rolling block action, is chambered in 12.7x45mm Remington Pontifico (nearly identical to .50-70 Government), and is identified by specific markings and the Papal 'crossed keys' crest.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Papal Rolling Block
  2. 01:13History of the Papal States Military
  3. 03:40Procurement and the Nagant Brothers
  4. 06:07Rolling Block Action Mechanics
  5. 07:13Identification and Markings
  6. 09:34Caliber and Technical Details
  7. 10:43The Fall of the Papal States and Later Service
  8. 13:50Rarity and Collector Market

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Papal Remington Rolling Block rifle historically significant?

The Papal Remington Rolling Block is significant as a rare firearm issued to the Papal States military in 1869, produced by the Nagant brothers. Its history involves the fall of the Papal States and later service in Ethiopia, making it a unique piece of 19th-century military history.

How can one identify a Papal Remington Rolling Block rifle?

Identification involves looking for specific markings like 'BREVET REMINGTON' and 'EM & L NAGANT A LIEGE' on the receiver, the Papal 'crossed keys' crest on the barrel, and a serial number prefix 'MG' for the Gendarmerie model. The caliber is 12.7x45mm Remington Pontifico.

What is the action mechanism of the Papal Remington Rolling Block?

The Papal Remington Rolling Block utilizes a single-shot, metallic cartridge, black powder rolling block action. This mechanism involves a hammer and a pivoting breech block that opens to allow loading and closes to seal the chamber for firing.

What is the caliber of the Papal Remington Rolling Block, and how does it compare to other cartridges?

The Papal Remington Rolling Block is chambered in 12.7x45mm Remington Pontifico. This cartridge is ballistically and physically nearly identical to the American .50-70 Government round, making them functionally interchangeable in many respects.

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