An Overview of the Pinfire Revolver System

Published on May 4, 2019
Duration: 13:21

This overview, presented by firearms expert Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, delves into the history, mechanics, and evolution of the pinfire revolver system. It highlights the contributions of the Lefaucheux family, the innovative yet flawed cartridge design, and the reasons for its eventual obsolescence in favor of rimfire and centerfire systems. The video showcases a variety of pinfire revolvers, emphasizing their historical significance and collector appeal.

Quick Summary

The pinfire revolver system, pioneered by the Lefaucheux family in the mid-19th century, utilizes a cartridge with a protruding pin struck by the hammer. While innovative, the exposed pin posed safety risks, and the system was eventually superseded by more reliable rimfire and centerfire cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Pinfire Revolvers
  2. 00:38The Lefaucheux Family Legacy
  3. 01:22Evolution of the Cartridge
  4. 02:38How the Pinfire System Works
  5. 04:02Eugene Lefaucheux and Military Success
  6. 06:00Mass Production and Obsolescence
  7. 07:50Why Pinfire Failed in the US
  8. 09:32Variations in Pinfire Revolvers
  9. 11:15Unique Features and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pinfire revolver?

A pinfire revolver is a type of firearm that uses a unique cartridge system where a small metal pin, protruding from the side of the cartridge case, is struck by the hammer to ignite the primer, firing the weapon. These were popular in the mid-19th century.

Who invented the pinfire system?

The pinfire cartridge system is primarily associated with the Lefaucheux family. Casimir Lefaucheux patented the pinfire cartridge in 1835, building upon earlier work by Jean Samuel Pauly. His son, Eugene Lefaucheux, further developed the system and the associated revolvers.

Why did pinfire revolvers become obsolete?

Pinfire revolvers became obsolete primarily due to the development of safer and more reliable rimfire and centerfire cartridges in the 1870s. The exposed pin on pinfire cartridges also presented a safety hazard, making them prone to accidental discharge.

Were pinfire revolvers popular in the United States?

Pinfire revolvers saw limited use and popularity in the United States compared to Europe. This was partly due to Eugene Lefaucheux not patenting his designs in the US and the strong market presence of American companies like Smith & Wesson focusing on rimfire and centerfire technologies.

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