A DAO Service Revolver in the Civil War: the Pettengill Army

Published on November 15, 2024
Duration: 15:28

This guide details the disassembly of the Pettengill Army Revolver, focusing on accessing its unique internal lockwork. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, highlights the complex mechanism that enables its Double-Action Only (DAO) operation. It's recommended for intermediate users familiar with firearm mechanics.

Quick Summary

The Pettengill Army Revolver is a Civil War-era DAO percussion revolver produced by Rogers & Spencer. Despite initial military rejection of its trigger, approximately 2,001 units were delivered to the US Army. Its complex internal mechanism allows for hammer cocking and firing with a single trigger pull.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Pettengill Revolver
  2. 01:08Civil War Contracts and Production Issues
  3. 03:14Military Testing and Rejection
  4. 05:52Physical Characteristics and Handling
  5. 07:38Disassembly and Markings
  6. 09:45Internal Mechanism
  7. 11:55Service History and Surplus Disposal

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pettengill Army Revolver?

The Pettengill Army Revolver is a unique Double-Action Only (DAO) percussion revolver that saw service with the US Army during the Civil War. It was invented by C.S. Pettengill and produced by Rogers & Spencer.

Why was the Pettengill Army Revolver's production delayed?

Production was delayed due to difficulties in scaling the design to .44 caliber and significant investment required for new machinery, leading to only one sample being ready by the initial deadline.

What are the key features of the Pettengill Army Revolver?

It features a 7.5-inch barrel, DAO percussion ignition, and a complex internal mechanism. Military-accepted models are marked with 'WW' inspector stamps and have serial numbers in a specific range.

How did the Pettengill Army Revolver perform in military trials?

Springfield Armory tested the sample and found the double-action trigger unsuitable for military use, leading to an attempt to cancel the contract, though a compromise was reached for a reduced order.

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