The Victorian revolvers fit for a revolutionary, with firearms and weaponry expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on May 3, 2023
Duration: 18:00

This video explores the Pryse-Cashmore revolver, a Victorian-era firearm often misidentified as the 'Daw' revolver due to its prominent retailer. Jonathan Ferguson details its design, which blends British and American influences, its various calibers and sizes, and its innovative double-action mechanism. The discussion also covers its cartridge conversion, potential design flaws, and historical marketing efforts, highlighting its place in firearms evolution.

Quick Summary

The Pryse-Cashmore revolver, often misnamed the 'Daw' revolver, was designed by Charles Pryse and Paul Cashmore. It blended British Adams and American Colt design elements, featuring an innovative double-action trigger mechanism and available in various sizes and calibers like the Army (54 bore/.443").

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Pryse-Cashmore Revolver
  2. 00:48The 'Daw' Name and Retailer
  3. 02:11Design and Aesthetics
  4. 03:57Variations and Calibers
  5. 04:44The Actual Makers: Pryse and Cashmore
  6. 05:30Double-Action Trigger Mechanism
  7. 07:51Loading Lever and Construction
  8. 10:04Cartridge Conversion and Cylinder Design
  9. 14:42Marketing and Historical Context

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pryse-Cashmore revolver often misnamed?

The Pryse-Cashmore revolver is often misnamed the 'Daw' revolver. This common misnomer comes from the retailer, George Henry Daw, whose name is frequently engraved on the barrel, overshadowing the actual designers, Charles Pryse and Paul Cashmore.

What were the key design influences of the Pryse-Cashmore revolver?

The Pryse-Cashmore revolver blended the elegant lines and hand-crafted finish characteristic of British Adams revolvers with the 'racing lines' and open-top design popular in American Colt percussion revolvers of the era.

What innovative feature did the Pryse-Cashmore revolver possess?

A significant innovation was its patented double-action trigger mechanism. This allowed the user to either cock and fire the revolver rapidly by pulling through the trigger or stage it for a more precise single-action shot.

What calibers and sizes were the Pryse-Cashmore revolvers made in?

The Pryse-Cashmore revolvers were available in several sizes and calibers, including Holster (38 bore/~.50 cal), Army (54 bore/.443"), Navy (80 bore/.387"), and Pocket (120 bore/.338"). Barrel lengths typically ranged from 5 to 6 inches.

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