Rare German Werder Pistol Model 1869 or M69 - "Bavarian Lightning pistol" - Dated 1869/1972 The Werder pistol model 1869 was an infantry and light cavalry falling block pistol, invented by Johann Ludwig Werder in Bavaria and based on his rifle design of 1868. It was one of the first centerfire pistols to be adopted for use by a European military. Although it was originally known as the "Bavarian Lightning pistol" because of its rate of fire, the Werder pistol proved too heavy for practical use, and was not used during the Franco-Prussian War. This rare piece is marked with the Regimental marking 2.sR.?.? of the Königlich Bayerisches 2.Schwere-Reiter-Regiment (Royal Bavarian 2nd Heavy Rider Regiment), but the rest is not readable. This gun was first issued in 1869 and reissued in 1872. WERDER model 1869/M69 pistol dated 1869/1872 Caliber: 11x50R Werder Cartridge Falling Block Action Markings: Regimental unit marking 2.sR.?.?. Serial No.: 1582 length: 40 cm Condition: In good working order, no rust, Inside of barrel has scratches but shiny and no rust, needs a good cleaning (Please see photos)