Rifleman Q & A: Antoine Ronge Pistol

by
posted on February 1, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ronge.jpg

Q: It is my hope you can provide me with information regarding this pistol that I received and that reputedly came back from France around the time of World War II.

A: Antoine Ronge was a gunmaker in Liege, Belgium, from 1785 to 1845. A search of the records shows several Ronge gunmakers in Liege from 1785 into the 20th century; their relationship to each other is not clear. The “Au Palais” marking shown on the lockplate of your pistol indicates the work of this gunmaker was accepted by the palace or court of the ruler, but it does not indicate that this particular pistol was made for the court or king. Rather, it is an indication of general quality.

--Michael F. Carrick

Latest

Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1
Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1

Rifleman Review: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Smith & Wesson's Model 1854 Stealth Hunter is one of the latest additions to the company's line of modernized lever-action rifles.

VKTR Goes 2011: The Vanguard VKP Pro

Primarily known for its premium AR-15 rifles, VKTR Industries jumped into the 2011 handgun world in 2026 with its VKP Pro and Vanguard designs.

Rifleman Q&A: Cracking Marlin’s Code

Q: I have a Marlin Model 782 repeater, Serial No. 27392733, with a Micro-Groove barrel. I would like to understand how to narrow down its time of manufacture.

Review: Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber

Ruger recently released a variant of its popular 10/22 made with modern materials and incorporating performance-minded engineering: the 10/22 Carbon Fiber.

Winchester Celebrates USA 250th With Commemorative Ammo Line

Winchester Ammunition's special line of commemorative ammunition honors the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding, with unique packaging that honors the American heritage.

BANISH Suppressors Introduces BANISH 556

BANISH Suppressors introduced its BANISH 556, a full-auto rated suppressor with controlled-flow technology that the company claims is the "most advanced 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. suppressor on the market."

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.