Minute of Mae: German Reichsrevolver M1879

The Model 1883 Reichsrevolver served as the standard German handgun from 1883 to 1908, evolving from the larger 1879 model with a shortened barrel and improved ergonomics. While the military version was single-action-only with a manual safety, commercial variants like those from Dreyse featured a unique double-action system with two triggers. Both models utilized the 10.6mm German Ordnance caliber and a 6-round cylinder, with military models requiring a separate rod for ejection.

The Model 1879 Reichsrevolver was the German Empire's first standardized revolver, designed for extreme durability despite poor ergonomics. It featured a unique recessed cylinder for safety and a manual safety lever. Lacking an ejector, it required a separate tool for spent casing removal. Its large size and 10.6mm black powder cartridge offered reliability over user comfort.

This expert review of the German Reichsrevolver M1879 from C&Rsenal details its substantial size (13.6 inches, 2.9 lbs) and 10.6x25mmR caliber. The video highlights the slow gate-loading process for its 6-round capacity and the single-action-only mechanism with a stiff hammer. While the grip is curved, it offers poor hand guidance. Recoil is manageable due to the revolver's mass, and the trigger pull is smooth, though the sights are tall with a shallow rear notch. The presenter notes the safety is stiff and the ejector rod is separate. Ultimately, the Reichsrevolver is deemed entertaining for modern shooters but likely challenging for soldiers in its era.

This review of the 1883 Reichsrevolver highlights its historical significance as the standard German military sidearm before the Luger. Despite being 'massively obsolete' even for its time, the single-action revolver was built for extreme durability. While its heavy recoil, black powder smoke, and poor sights make accuracy challenging, its robust construction and heavy caliber prove effective at close range.

This "American Rifleman Television" segment delves into the German Reichsrevolver, also known as the German Commission Revolver. The video highlights the unique appearance and heavy-duty nature of these late 19th-century military sidearms, detailing the two models produced in 1879 and 1883. The description humorously explains the "Commission Revolver" nickname, suggesting the gun's design reflects a committee's input.

The Reichsrevolver, despite its historical significance in the German military, is critically examined for its outdated design compared to contemporaries. Its single-action-only mechanism, heavy hammer spring, awkward grip (especially on the 1879 model), cumbersome loading, and difficult ejection system highlight its shortcomings. European designs like the French Chamelot-Delvigne 1873 and Swiss Model 1878 offered superior double-action capabilities, better ergonomics, and integrated ejectors, making the Reichsrevolver a lackluster firearm for its era.

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