Anvil 077: Volcanic Activity

This entry details the unique ignition system of the Volcanic pistol, a collaborative effort between Smith & Wesson and Winchester. It highlights the innovative bullet design where the base contained gunpowder, ignited by a primer pellet. The mechanism is noted to be identical to early Winchester lever-action rifles, including models up to the 1876.

This guide details the disassembly and maintenance of the rare 1879 Guycot Rocket Ball Chain Rifle, as demonstrated by an expert. It covers accessing the internal chain mechanism via the side plate and adjusting chain tension through the stock. Proper safety protocols are emphasized throughout the process.

This guide details the unique loading and firing mechanism of the Colette Gravity Pistol, a mid-19th-century firearm. It explains how gravity is used to feed self-contained rocket ball ammunition into the breech, a process distinct from modern firearms. The guide, based on expert analysis, covers the loading procedure, mechanical operation, and cleaning features of this historical weapon.

This guide details the operation of the Volcanic Repeating Pistol's unique lever-action toggle-lock mechanism. It covers the steps for cycling the action, from opening and recocking to chambering a round, emphasizing safety throughout. The Volcanic's design laid the groundwork for later iconic lever-action rifles like the Henry and Winchester.

This guide details the unique gravity-feeding mechanism of the Colette Gravity Pistol, as explained by Ian McCollum. It covers the specific 'Rocket Ball' ammunition and the vertical breech block operation. The process involves tilting the muzzle to load and cocking the hammer to seal the chamber, highlighting a rare and complex action type.

This guide details the mechanical aspects of the Volcanic pistol, highlighting its toggle-link action, magazine loading system, and variations in frame materials and markings. It emphasizes the historical lineage connecting the Volcanic to later Winchester rifles. The information is presented with high authority by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms.

This guide details the expert gunsmithing process of sleeving a Peabody rifle's chamber to .45-70 Government, as demonstrated by Mark Novak. The modification involves precise machining on a lathe and milling machine to adapt the breech and extractor for the larger cartridge. Crucially, the rifle is only safe for black powder loads due to structural modifications.

This guide details a meticulous, conservation-focused restoration of a flood-damaged Mauser K98, led by Master Gunsmith Mark Novak. It covers advanced techniques for rust removal, wood repair, and finish preservation, emphasizing the importance of retaining historical integrity over achieving a pristine appearance. Novak's expertise is evident in his use of specialized tools and adherence to established gunsmithing principles from authors like Jerry Kuhnhausen.

This guide details the firing sequence of the 1918 Chauchat light machine gun as demonstrated by expert Mark Novak. It covers safe handling, live fire, and a detailed analysis of the weapon's unique long-recoil action using slow-motion footage. Novak's expertise is evident in his proficient handling and clear explanation of the mechanical operation.

This video details the conservation of a barn-found LC Smith 20 Gauge shotgun. Mark Novak demonstrates critical steps including barrel solder testing, proper disassembly with fitted tools, and analysis of the stock's inherent weaknesses. The conservation process involves boiling metal parts to convert rust to black oxide and treating the wood with oil, followed by meticulous reassembly and a successful test fire.