Why didn't this 🇧🇪 chain revolver retainer system catch on? With firearm expert Jonathan Ferguson.

Published on May 25, 2022
Duration: 12:30

This video details a unique cylinder retention and reloading system found on an 1870s Belgian pinfire revolver. Firearm expert Jonathan Ferguson explains how the cylinder axis pin, attached by a chain, slides forward to allow cylinder removal for loading. He also discusses the pinfire ignition mechanism and potential reasons why this system did not become widespread, citing the advent of more efficient reloading methods.

Quick Summary

A rare 1870s Belgian pinfire revolver features a unique cylinder retention system where a sliding axis pin, attached by a chain, allows the cylinder to be removed for loading. This system, while functional, did not become widespread due to the emergence of more efficient reloading methods like gate loading and break-open designs.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to the Belgian Revolver
  2. 00:18Belgian Firearms Industry Context
  3. 00:59Identifying Pinfire Ignition
  4. 01:4211mm Pinfire Cartridge Explained
  5. 02:34The Cylinder Retention Chain
  6. 03:00Cylinder Removal Mechanism
  7. 03:44Cylinder as a Retainer/Lanyard
  8. 04:06Reloading Without a Loading Gate
  9. 04:15Loading Pinfire Cartridges
  10. 05:17Unloading and Ejecting Cases
  11. 05:54Rod for Ejecting Empties
  12. 06:23Wear from the Retention System
  13. 07:04Markings and Proofs
  14. 07:59Attribution to Alexander Fagnou
  15. 08:51Why the System Didn't Catch On
  16. 09:46Emergence of Better Reloading Methods
  17. 10:34Fagnou Company History

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the cylinder retention system work on this Belgian pinfire revolver?

The system uses a sliding cylinder axis pin, attached by a chain to the frame. Pulling forward on the rod allows the pin to retract, freeing the cylinder to be removed from the side for loading. The chain acts as a lanyard to prevent the cylinder from being lost.

What is pinfire ignition and how does it differ from modern cartridges?

Pinfire ignition uses a small copper pin that protrudes from the side of the cartridge case. The firearm's flat hammer strikes this pin, igniting the primer inside. This is distinct from modern centerfire or rimfire cartridges where the primer is struck directly.

Why did this unique cylinder retention system not become popular?

This system likely didn't catch on because by the 1870s and 1880s, more efficient reloading methods were available or emerging, such as gate loading on revolvers like the Colt SAA and break-open designs from Smith & Wesson, which were faster and more convenient.

What are the potential downsides of this chained cylinder retention system?

A primary downside is the wear it can cause to the firearm's finish, as the chain rubs against the barrel and frame over time. Additionally, the chain itself could be a point of failure or inconvenience, especially if reloading under pressure.

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