The Webley 'Kaufmann' Improved Government Revolver with firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson.

Published on July 10, 2024
Duration: 26:48

This video details the evolution of the Webley 'Kaufmann' Improved Government Model revolver, identifying five distinct patterns. Expert Jonathan Ferguson highlights key changes in the frame latch, cylinder stop mechanism, retailer markings, and rear sight design across these patterns. The discussion emphasizes the progression from early push-button latches to the later stirrup latch and the refinement of safety features, offering valuable insights for firearms collectors and historians.

Quick Summary

The Webley 'Kaufmann' Improved Government Model revolver evolved through five distinct patterns. Key changes include the transition from a push-button frame latch to a stirrup latch, separation of the cylinder stop from the trigger for enhanced safety, and the addition of an optional safety block in later models. These revolvers were typically chambered in .476 caliber.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Webley 'Kaufmann' Revolvers
  2. 00:20The Webley Kalman: Improved Government Model
  3. 01:14Three Variants Initially Identified
  4. 01:51Place in British Revolver Legacy
  5. 03:31Common Caliber: .476 Cartridge
  6. 04:07First Pattern: Push Button Latch
  7. 06:37Markings: SW Silver & Co.
  8. 07:12Unusual 'Retrieve' Marking
  9. 08:23SW Silver Monogram
  10. 09:08Victorian Leather Holster
  11. 09:55Rebounding Hammer Safety Feature
  12. 10:26Cylinder Removal Mechanism
  13. 11:14First Pattern Production Numbers
  14. 11:47Royalty Numbers Explained
  15. 12:32Second Pattern: Holland & Holland Retailer
  16. 12:55Augmented Latch: Lever Addition
  17. 14:21Third Pattern: Cylinder Stop Separation
  18. 15:41Cylinder Stop Mechanism on Early Patterns
  19. 17:11Improved Cylinder Stop Functionality
  20. 18:57Fourth Pattern: Optional Safety Block
  21. 20:08Safety Block Functionality
  22. 22:28Fifth Pattern: Stirrup Latch
  23. 23:37Webley Patent and W&S Markings
  24. 24:33Sighting System Evolution
  25. 25:07Conclusion: Five Known Variants

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the patterns of the Webley 'Kaufmann' Improved Government Model revolver?

The patterns differ primarily in their frame latch mechanisms, evolving from a push-button system on early models to the later stirrup latch. Significant changes also occurred in the cylinder stop mechanism, with later patterns separating it from the trigger for improved safety, and the introduction of an optional safety block in the fourth pattern.

What caliber was the Webley 'Kaufmann' revolver typically chambered for?

The Webley 'Kaufmann' Improved Government Model revolver was generally chambered for the .476 caliber cartridge. While dimensionally similar to the .450 and .455 Webley cartridges, the .476 was specifically associated with this model and the earlier Enfield revolver.

How did the safety features of the Webley 'Kaufmann' revolver evolve across its different patterns?

Early patterns had a cylinder stop integrated with the trigger. Later patterns (3rd and 4th) separated this stop from the trigger to prevent accidental cylinder rotation. The 4th pattern also introduced an optional safety block to prevent firing if the revolver was slightly open, enhancing overall safety.

Which retailers were associated with the early patterns of the Webley 'Kaufmann' revolver?

The first pattern of the Webley 'Kaufmann' revolver was retailed by SW Silver & Co. of Cornhill, London. The second pattern was retailed by the renowned gunmaker Holland & Holland, indicating these early models were marketed through prominent British sporting arms dealers.

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