Le Français Type Armée - A Strange Service Pistol

Published on April 8, 2020
Duration: 10:45

This guide details the disassembly of the Le Français Type Armée, a unique French service pistol. It highlights the tip-up barrel mechanism and the unusual mainspring placement. The information is presented with the authority of Ian McCollum, an expert in historical firearms, offering deep insights into its mechanical oddities.

Quick Summary

The Le Français Type Armée is a French service pistol from the late 1920s/early 1930s, chambered in 9mm Browning Long. It features a unique tip-up barrel, a heavy Double Action Only (DAO) trigger, and no manual safety. Despite its development, the French military did not officially adopt it due to several perceived shortcomings.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Le Français Type Armée
  2. 01:40Unique Operation and Loading
  3. 03:08Trigger and Safety Features
  4. 03:35Markings and Variations
  5. 05:14Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  6. 09:31Military Testing and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Le Français Type Armée?

The Le Français Type Armée is a French service pistol developed in the late 1920s/early 1930s, evolving from a civilian pocket pistol. It's known for its unique tip-up barrel and Double Action Only (DAO) trigger system.

What caliber is the Le Français Type Armée?

The Le Français Type Armée is chambered in 9mm Browning Long. Earlier civilian versions were available in calibers like .25 ACP and .32 ACP.

Why was the Le Français Type Armée not adopted by the French military?

The French military rejected the Type Armée due to its heavy DAO trigger, simple blowback action, lack of an extractor/ejector, and its considerable weight, deeming it unsuitable for service use.

What are the key mechanical features of the Le Français Type Armée?

Key features include a tip-up barrel for loading, a Double Action Only (DAO) trigger with no manual safety, and a unique mainspring located in the front of the grip connected via levers.

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