Biggest Revolver Yet? A 10-Gauge Colt 1855...

Published on October 17, 2019
Duration: 5:03

This video details a heavily modified Colt 1855 revolving shotgun, converted into a 10-gauge pistol. Expert Ian McCollum demonstrates its extreme size, comparing it to a Colt 1847 Walker, and discusses its unique side-hammer percussion action and custom modifications. The guide covers the difficulty in cocking the heavy mechanism and confirms its functional, albeit extreme, nature.

Quick Summary

The modified Colt 1855 is a massive 10-gauge pistol, equivalent to a .75 caliber firearm. It weighs 6.5 lbs (3 kg) and has an approximate barrel length of 12 inches, making it significantly larger than even a Colt 1847 Walker. Its operation is difficult due to the heavy mechanism, often requiring gravity assistance to cock the hammer.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 10-Gauge Revolver
  2. 00:53Size Comparison with Colt Walker
  3. 01:17Origins and Design
  4. 02:12Technical Modifications
  5. 02:57Grip Decorations and Provenance
  6. 03:28Functionality and Handling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the caliber and size of the modified Colt 1855 pistol?

The modified Colt 1855 is a massive 10-gauge pistol, equivalent to a .75 caliber firearm. It weighs 6.5 lbs (3 kg) and has an approximate barrel length of 12 inches, making it significantly larger than even a Colt 1847 Walker.

What is the ignition system of the Colt 1855 revolving shotgun?

The Colt 1855 revolving shotgun, including this modified pistol version, utilizes the Elisha Root side-hammer percussion patent. This system involves a hammer striking a percussion cap from the side to ignite the powder charge.

What modifications were made to create the 10-gauge pistol?

The original Colt 1855 revolving shotgun was converted into a pistol by shortening the barrel to about 12 inches, bending the backstrap downwards, adding custom oversized wooden grips, and extending the brass trigger guard.

How difficult is it to operate the modified Colt 1855 10-gauge pistol?

Operating this firearm is challenging due to its immense size and heavy mechanism. Cocking the hammer single-handedly is difficult and often requires tilting the barrel upwards to use gravity to assist the action.

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