Cochran Turret Revolver

Published on April 3, 2016
Duration: 12:36

This guide details the disassembly and inspection of the rare Cochran Turret Revolver, based on expert instruction. It covers safe handling, cylinder removal via the rear sight latch, and examination of its unique under-hammer action, manual indexing, and materials like German Silver grips. The process highlights the historical significance and mechanical intricacies of this approximately 150-unit production firearm, emphasizing careful handling due to its age and rarity.

Quick Summary

The Cochran Turret Revolver, produced around 1837, is a rare 7-shot, .38 caliber firearm notable for its unique design where the cylinder rotates on an axis perpendicular to the barrel. It features an under-hammer action and manual indexing, manufactured by C.B. Allen. Despite its innovative mechanics, safety concerns like chain firing limited its success, with only about 150 units produced.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cochran Turret Revolver
  2. 01:27Safety Concerns and Rarity
  3. 02:39John Cochran's Background
  4. 05:35Technical Specifications and Indexing
  5. 07:07Disassembly and Materials
  6. 09:09Action and Sights
  7. 11:36Manufacturing and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Cochran Turret Revolver unique compared to other revolvers?

The Cochran Turret Revolver's uniqueness lies in its axis of rotation for the cylinder, which is perpendicular to the barrel, arranging chambers like spokes on a wheel. It also features an under-hammer action and manual cylinder indexing.

Why were turret revolvers like the Cochran generally unsuccessful?

Turret revolvers faced significant safety concerns, primarily the risk of 'chain firing,' where multiple chambers could ignite simultaneously. This made them less reliable and potentially dangerous compared to contemporary designs.

Who manufactured the Cochran Turret Revolver, and where?

The Cochran Turret Revolver was manufactured by C.B. Allen in Springfield, Massachusetts, under contract with inventor John Cochran. This is often marked on the firearm with an eagle logo.

What are the key technical specifications of the Cochran Turret Revolver?

This model is a 7-shot, .38 caliber pistol developed around 1837. It has an iron frame, German Silver (nickel alloy) grips, an under-hammer action, and manual cylinder indexing.

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