This rifle design was developed by the Gevelot cartridge company to compete with the Modele 1866 Chassepot for French military use, although it was not successful in that attempt. The weapon has an uncommon sliding chamber mechanism in which the cartridge does not move forward into the chamber, but rather stays fixed in place while a cylindrical chamber slides over it when the action is closed. The cartridge itself is a modified type of pinfire with the pin located in the center of the cartridge case head, in line with the barrel and cartridge (as opposed to being offset 90 degrees like typical pinfire revolver ammunition).

Thanks to the Institute of Military Technology for allowing me to have access to this rifle so I can bring it to you! Check out the IMT at:

http://www.instmiltech.com