Franchi

Franchi is an Italian surname of likely occupational or descriptive origin. The name derives from the word franco, meaning free or frank, and may have been used as a patronymic or adjective. It is found throughout Italy and among Italian communities abroad, with higher concentrations in northern regions and in families tracing ancestry to medieval or Renaissance periods. Variants include Franchini and Franchino.

In addition to being a surname, Franchi refers to Franchi S.p.A., an Italian firearms manufacturer renowned for hunting shotguns and semi-automatic rifles. The company was established in the 19th century by the Franchi family and became known for products used in sport shooting as well as by enthusiasts of practical and defensive firearms. A notable model associated with the brand is the SPAS-12, a 12-gauge shotgun that achieved prominence in both popular culture and professional circles. The Franchi brand has maintained a significant presence in the international firearms market and contributed to the development of Italian shotgun design.

The surname Franchi appears in various fields through individuals bearing the name, including athletes, artists, and scholars, reflecting its spread within Italian-speaking communities. The name is most common in Italy, as well as in countries with substantial Italian diaspora populations.