Adams Mk1 Conversion

Published on June 17, 2026
Duration: 2:19

This video details the conversion of a Beaumont Adams percussion revolver to a Mark 1 centerfire model, a common practice in British naval service during the 1870s. Key modifications include replacing the cylinder with one bored for rear center priming, reshaping the hammer to incorporate a firing pin, and altering the frame to accommodate an ejector rod and loading gate. The original loading ram was removed, and the log was shaved down to facilitate the release of the center arbor. The safety mechanism was also deleted and replaced by using the ejector rod to lock the action.

Quick Summary

The Adams Mark 1 conversion transformed percussion revolvers into centerfire models, common in British naval service during the 1870s. Modifications included a new cylinder for centerfire priming, a hammer reshaped into a firing pin, and frame alterations for an ejector rod and loading gate. The original safety was deleted, replaced by using the ejector rod to lock the action.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Beaumont Adams Revolver
  2. 00:11Need for Cleaning and Inspection
  3. 00:20Adams Revolver Centerfire Conversion
  4. 00:38The Mark 1 Adams Conversion Explained
  5. 00:46Cylinder and Hammer Modifications
  6. 00:59Frame Modifications: Ejector Rod and Loading Gate
  7. 01:20Mark 1 Conversion Markings and Acceptance Date
  8. 01:29Capacity and Further Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key modifications for an Adams revolver to become a Mark 1 centerfire?

The Mark 1 conversion primarily involved replacing the percussion cylinder with one bored for centerfire cartridges, reshaping the hammer into a firing pin, and modifying the frame to incorporate an ejector rod and a loading gate. The original safety was also removed.

How did the Mark 1 conversion address the loading mechanism of the Adams revolver?

The original loading ram was removed, and the frame's log was shaved down to allow for the release of the center arbor. A lug was then added to hold a flip-up loading gate, and an ejector rod was integrated into the frame.

What is the significance of the broad arrow marking on Mark 1 Adams revolvers?

The broad arrow marking, often accompanied by a War Department mark, indicates that the revolver was originally a military issue firearm that underwent the official conversion process to centerfire ammunition.

Did the Mark 1 conversion affect the cylinder capacity of the Adams revolver?

No, the Mark 1 conversion typically retained the original 5-shot cylinder capacity inherited from the percussion version of the Adams revolver. This was a consistent feature across these conversions.

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