Transfer Bars in Revolvers

Published on April 20, 2024
Duration: 5:31

This video explains the function and safety implications of transfer bars in revolvers. It contrasts revolvers with and without transfer bars, demonstrating how the transfer bar acts as an intermediary between the hammer and firing pin, enhancing safety by preventing direct contact with the primer when the trigger is not pulled. The presenter highlights that revolvers without transfer bars require specific loading practices, like the 'cowboy load,' to mitigate accidental discharge risks.

Quick Summary

A transfer bar in a revolver is a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge. It acts as an intermediary, blocking the hammer from directly striking the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled. This design allows revolvers to be safely carried with all chambers loaded, unlike older designs without transfer bars which often require leaving a chamber empty.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Transfer Bar vs. No Transfer Bar
  2. 01:14Revolver Without Transfer Bar: Pietta 1873 SAA
  3. 01:38How a Non-Transfer Bar System Works
  4. 02:06Revolver With Transfer Bar: Taurus Deputy
  5. 02:45Identifying the Transfer Bar
  6. 03:02How a Transfer Bar System Works
  7. 03:29Safety Advantages of Transfer Bars
  8. 03:53Safety Risks of Non-Transfer Bar Revolvers
  9. 04:08Historical Safety Measures: The Cowboy Load
  10. 04:40Conclusion: Personal Preference and Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a transfer bar in a revolver and how does it improve safety?

A transfer bar is a safety mechanism in revolvers that acts as an intermediary between the hammer and the firing pin. When the trigger is pulled, the transfer bar rises to block the hammer from directly striking the firing pin. This prevents accidental discharge if the gun is dropped or struck, as the hammer rests on the frame when not in use.

What is the difference in safety between revolvers with and without a transfer bar?

Revolvers with transfer bars are generally safer for carrying fully loaded. In these systems, the hammer rests on the frame, not the firing pin. Revolvers without transfer bars have the firing pin resting on the primer, making them more susceptible to accidental discharge if dropped or impacted, often requiring the 'cowboy load' (one empty chamber).

How does a revolver without a transfer bar operate when fired?

In a revolver without a transfer bar, the firing pin is typically part of the hammer. When the hammer is cocked and released, it directly strikes the firing pin, which then impacts the primer of the ammunition cartridge to ignite it. There is no intermediate safety mechanism between the hammer and the firing pin.

What is the 'cowboy load' and why is it used?

The 'cowboy load' is a safety measure for revolvers that do not have a transfer bar. It involves loading only five rounds into the six-chamber cylinder, leaving one chamber empty. The hammer is then lowered onto this empty chamber, so it rests on the solid frame instead of the primer of a live round, reducing the risk of accidental discharge.

Related News

All News →

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Guns of the West

View all →