Make: Belgium

Model: M1873 Montenegrin Gasser

Serial Number: 30170

Year of Manufacture: 1894-1914 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 11.3×36mmR

Action Type: Single/double action, side loading gate, 5-shot,

Barrel Length: 5.125"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a large triangular sight integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a wide u-notch integral to the top strap.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth wood panels. The grips show heavy handling wear with several cracks present. Overall, the grips rate in Fair condition.

Type of Finish: Nickeled

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion and light pitting throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 4/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 5% of its original nickeled finish. The finish shows heavy scrubbing, oxidation, light pitting, and scratches throughout. The markings are worn and some are incomplete. The screw heads are moderately tooled and retain turnable slots. Overall, this firearm rates in Poor condition.

Mechanics: The action DOES NOT function correctly. The cylinder spins freely and the double action does not function. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This Belgian M1873 Montenegrin Gasser was manufactured between 1894 and 1914 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Belgian makers during the height of the Montenegrin revolver trade, these large-frame revolvers were patterned after the Austrian Gasser Model 1873 and were exported in significant numbers to the Balkans. King Nicholas I of Montenegro famously encouraged military-age men to own a revolver, creating strong demand for these robust sidearms. Belgian manufacturers responded by producing numerous variations, making Montenegrin Gasser revolvers an important and highly recognizable category of late 19th-century European handguns.

Chambered in 11.3×36mmR with a 5.125 inch barrel, this single-action/double-action revolver was designed as a powerful military and civilian sidearm. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 4 out of 10, showing heavy wear with diminished rifling. The action does not function correctly. The cylinder spins freely, and the double-action mechanism is inoperative, making the revolver best suited as a collectible or decorative piece.

The grips rate in Fair condition with age-related wear and handling marks. Approximately 5% of the original nickel finish remains, with the balance having worn away or deteriorated over time. Overall, this firearm rates in Poor condition due to its mechanical deficiencies and extensive finish loss, though it remains an interesting Belgian-made example of the iconic Montenegrin Gasser pattern revolver. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!