18th Century Self-Rotating Flintlock Revolver with firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on March 19, 2025
Duration: 11:35

This video provides an expert-level examination of an 18th-century self-rotating flintlock revolver by Thomas Annely, presented by Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery. It details the unique automatic cylinder rotation mechanism, predating Colt's designs, and discusses its historical context and technical similarities to later revolvers. The presentation highlights the craftsmanship and rarity of this significant piece in firearms evolution.

Quick Summary

An 18th-century flintlock revolver, possibly made by Thomas Annely around the 1730s, features a rare self-rotating cylinder mechanism. This design automatically indexes the cylinder when the hammer is cocked, using a spring-loaded nubbin and angled slots, a principle strikingly similar to later Samuel Colt revolvers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 18th Century Flintlock Revolver
  2. 01:04Self-Rotating Cylinder Mechanism Explained
  3. 02:19Revolver Capacity and Firing Process
  4. 03:37Comparison to Colt Revolver Mechanism
  5. 04:34Historical Predecessors: Snaphance Revolvers
  6. 07:35Identifying the Maker: Thomas Annely
  7. 08:50Design Details and Surviving Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 18th-century flintlock revolver unique?

This 18th-century flintlock revolver is notable for its self-rotating cylinder mechanism. Unlike earlier designs requiring manual rotation, its cylinder indexes automatically when the hammer is cocked, a principle remarkably similar to later Colt revolvers.

Who was the maker of this historical revolver?

The revolver is marked 'T ANNELY'. Experts identify this as likely the work of Thomas Annely the Elder, a gunmaker from Bristol, potentially dating the piece to the 1730s. This indicates significant craftsmanship from that period.

How does the self-rotating mechanism on this flintlock revolver work?

The mechanism uses a flat spring with a 'nubbin' to index the cylinder. When the hammer (cock) is drawn back, it engages angled slots on the cylinder's rear via a pivoting lever, causing the cylinder to rotate automatically.

Does this revolver predate Samuel Colt's designs?

Yes, this flintlock revolver, likely from the 1730s, predates Samuel Colt's famous revolvers. Its self-rotating mechanism demonstrates that the core principles were understood and implemented centuries earlier, with historical examples dating back to the mid-17th century.

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