Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms and Artillery, discusses his extensive research into the British military's adoption and use of the AR-15 platform, noting its adoption in 1965, the same year as the US Army. He also delves into the history of early self-rotating revolvers, specifically the Collier revolver, and its potential influence on Sam Colt's later patented designs, highlighting the complexities of historical innovation and patent protection.
This entry details the 'Clockwork Basilisk' book set by Ben Nicholson, focusing on the early revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler. It highlights their 1818 patent, predating Samuel Colt's, and the subsequent patent infringement trials. The set includes historical context, mechanical details, and a comprehensive catalog of surviving examples. The research involved extensive international archives, establishing the significance of Collier's work in early revolver development.
This video delves into the world of fakes and replicas of Elisha Collier's early revolving firearms, highlighting the motivations behind their creation, from professional challenges to financial gain. It discusses the rarity of authentic Colliers, the methods used by forgers, and the subtle indicators that distinguish genuine pieces from reproductions, such as proof mark placement and screw thread precision. The discussion also touches upon the historical significance of the Collier revolver as the 'fountainhead of all modern revolvers' and the psychological aspects of collecting.
This video provides a final update on the Clockwork Basilisk Kickstarter campaign, announcing that all stretch goals have been met. Key achievements include the unlocking of a two-sided cocktail sheet with period-inspired and modern recipes, and a free World of Guns model for the second pattern Collier revolver for all backers. The campaign is nearing its end, with a reminder about pre-sale discounts.
This video showcases the meticulous field stripping of a Second Model Collier revolver, highlighting its intricate blend of British bespoke craftsmanship and American machine manufacturing. Presented by Professor Ben Nicholson and facilitated by collector Frank Graves, the disassembly offers a detailed look at the engineering and artistry inherent in these early revolvers. The description also promotes the pre-order of the book "Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler" on Kickstarter.
This video delves into the complex history of revolver patents, specifically contrasting the innovations of Elisha Collier with Samuel Colt. It highlights how Colt's success was not solely due to his invention but also his legal team's ability to navigate and, at times, obscure prior art and existing patents. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patents in rewarding innovation, while also acknowledging their potential for abuse through legal maneuvering.
This video, featuring Professor Ben Nicholson and Ian McCollum, details the three distinct patterns of Elisha Collier's early revolvers, as categorized by collector Clay Bedford. It covers the 'First Model' prototypes, the 'Second Model' flintlocks, and the 'Third Model' percussion revolvers, including their development timeline, technical differences, and the historical context of percussion ignition's adoption. The discussion highlights Collier's engineering background and his transition to other inventions.
This video provides an update on the Clockwork Basilisk Kickstarter campaign by Headstamp Publishing. It details several recently unlocked stretch goals, including additional content on Collier revolver engravings, custom end sheets, a bookmark ribbon, and supplementary information on early flintlock revolvers like the Kolb and Annalee. The next target is a custom frontispiece illustration.
This guide details the manual operation and muzzle-loading procedure for the Salvatore Mazza Percussion Collier Revolver. It highlights the unique manual cylinder rotation and the importance of chamber numbering due to the gas shield. The information is presented with the authority of Ian McCollum, an expert in historical firearms.
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