History Primer 157: Swiss Revolver of 1882 Documentary

Published on April 19, 2022
Duration: 44:52

This video provides a detailed historical overview and technical breakdown of the Swiss Revolver of 1882. It covers its development, design evolution, and comparison to its predecessor, the 1878 model. The video also includes a comprehensive look at its disassembly, internal mechanisms, and shooting characteristics, highlighting its unique Abid loading system and the 7.5mm cartridge.

Quick Summary

The Swiss Revolver of 1882 is a compact and lighter evolution of the 1878 model, chambered in 7.5mm. It features the unique Abid loading system for faster reloads and was designed for non-mounted officers. While its double-action trigger pull is notably heavy, its design and historical significance make it a noteworthy firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction to the Swiss Revolver of 1882
  2. 00:33Physical Specifications and Cartridge
  3. 01:25Historical Context: Predecessor and Design Influences
  4. 02:16Rudolph Schmidt: The Designer's Background
  5. 03:54Schmidt's Pedal Scheme and Arsenal Founding
  6. 04:33Trials and Adoption of Early Swiss Revolvers
  7. 06:06Development of the 1877 Abid Safety Revolver
  8. 06:31Problems with the 1878 Revolver and Schmidt's Proposal
  9. 07:38Introduction of the 7.5mm Cartridge
  10. 08:20Ard Rubin and Small-Bore Ammunition Research
  11. 09:38The 7.5mm 1882 Cartridge
  12. 10:07Schmidt's Design Variations and Adoption
  13. 10:33Detailed Look at the Model 1882
  14. 11:40Loading and Unloading System (Abid)
  15. 12:23Disassembly Procedure
  16. 13:18Internal Mechanism Overview
  17. 16:23Animation: Abid System Functionality
  18. 19:53Shooting Impressions
  19. 20:04Production and Commercial Sales
  20. 20:41Shoulder Stock Accessory
  21. 21:39Evolution and Changes to the 1882 Model
  22. 23:10Improvements to the Abid System Safety
  23. 23:51Barrel Profile and Grip Changes
  24. 24:38SIG's Involvement in Production
  25. 25:07Bicycle Troops Variation
  26. 25:35Frame Reinforcement and Steel Insert
  27. 26:28Wood Grip Implementation
  28. 26:45Expanded Role and Service Life
  29. 27:57Auto Ejector Trials
  30. 28:21May's Opinion on Shooting the 1882
  31. 33:01Sights and Trigger Pull Analysis
  32. 35:03Double Action Trigger Pull Critique
  33. 36:067.5mm Cartridge Performance
  34. 37:00Grip Comfort and Recoil Handling
  35. 38:06Target Shooting Performance
  36. 39:14Comparison: 1882 vs. 1878 for Combat Utility
  37. 41:17Trigger Stiffness and Variations
  38. 42:15Collector's Perspective on the 1882
  39. 43:33Dating Advice from AAS
  40. 44:18Upcoming Q&A Episode Announcement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Abid loading system on the Swiss Revolver of 1882?

The Abid system on the 1882 revolver allows for faster loading and unloading. When the gate is opened, a lug disengages the hammer from the trigger, enabling the cylinder to be rotated by pulling the trigger without firing the weapon.

What caliber is the Swiss Revolver of 1882 chambered in?

The Swiss Revolver of 1882 is chambered in a 7.5mm black powder cartridge. This was a deliberate choice influenced by research into small-bore, high-speed projectiles, marking a reverse order of adoption compared to typical rifle calibers of the era.

How does the Swiss Revolver of 1882 differ from the 1878 model?

The 1882 is significantly more compact and lighter than the 1878, designed for non-mounted officers. It features a smaller 7.5mm cartridge and the Abid loading system, whereas the 1878 is larger, uses a 10.4mm cartridge, and lacks the Abid system.

What were some of the design improvements made to the Swiss Revolver of 1882 over time?

Over its production life, the 1882 saw improvements including a safer Abid system, a tapered barrel profile to reduce holster wear, and the replacement of brittle hard rubber grips with more durable wood grips. Early models also received a steel insert for the breech face to combat erosion.

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