Broken Black Powder Colt Revolver Fix!

Published on October 26, 2019
Duration: 6:22

This guide details the repair of a broken hand spring in a Pietta 1860 Army black powder revolver. The hand spring is crucial for rotating the cylinder. The process involves disassembly, replacing the spring, and reassembly, with a potential adjustment step involving filing the hand if it over-cocks the cylinder. The presenter emphasizes that replacing the entire hand with an integrated spring is often easier and cheaper than fabricating a new spring.

Quick Summary

A broken hand spring in a black powder revolver prevents cylinder rotation. The hand spring tensions the hand, which pushes the cylinder's ratchet. Repair typically involves replacing the hand assembly and, if necessary, filing the hand to prevent over-cocking.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Problem
  2. 00:15Revolver Identification
  3. 00:31Explaining Hand Spring Function
  4. 01:11Repair Options
  5. 01:49Disassembly
  6. 02:03Locating the Hand
  7. 02:22Identifying the Break
  8. 02:53Ammunition and Load Details
  9. 03:51Test Firing
  10. 04:21Repair Adjustment (Filing)
  11. 05:25Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a black powder revolver cylinder to stop rotating?

A common cause is a broken hand spring. The hand spring provides tension to the hand, which is responsible for pushing the cylinder's ratchet mechanism to advance the cylinder to the next chamber when the hammer is cocked.

How do you fix a broken hand spring in a Pietta 1860 Army revolver?

The repair involves disassembling the revolver to access the hand and spring. The broken spring or hand assembly is replaced. If the new part causes over-cocking, the hand may need to be filed down for proper alignment.

Is it better to repair or replace a broken hand spring on a black powder revolver?

It is often easier and more cost-effective to purchase a new hand with the spring already integrated, rather than attempting to fabricate a replacement spring for an old hand.

What are the key components involved in cylinder rotation on a black powder revolver?

Cylinder rotation is primarily managed by the hand and the hand spring. The hand engages the cylinder's ratchet, and the hand spring provides the necessary tension for this engagement to occur smoothly as the hammer is cocked.

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