Colt 1855 10-Gauge Revolving Shotgun

Published on September 18, 2025
Duration: 1:10

This guide details the disassembly of the Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun, focusing on its unique mechanical features. The video, presented with high authority by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, highlights the removal of the cylinder axis pin and the operation of the rack and pinion lever system. It also touches upon historical design flaws like chain fires, offering valuable insights for firearm enthusiasts and historians.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun features a unique rack and pinion lever for cycling, a side-mounted hammer, and ratchets located on the cylinder axis pin. Historically, it suffered from chain fire risks, with attempted shield solutions proving ineffective and potentially increasing danger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 1855 Colt Revolving Shotgun
  2. 00:06Rack and Pinion Lever System Explained
  3. 00:16Side Hammer Design
  4. 00:23Cylinder Axis Pin and Ratchet Removal
  5. 00:38Chain Fire Risks and Design Flaws

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun cycle?

The Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun uses a unique rack and pinion lever system. When the lever is operated, it moves backward, providing increased leverage to cycle the action and rotate the cylinder.

What is unique about the cylinder mechanism on the Colt 1855?

Unlike many revolvers where ratchets are on the cylinder's rear face, the Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun features ratchets located on the cylinder axis pin itself, which is removed for cylinder access.

What safety issues were associated with the Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun?

A significant issue was the risk of chain fires. Attempts to mitigate this with a shield reflected sparks back into the cylinder, exacerbating the problem and highlighting historical design challenges.

What type of hammer does the Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun have?

The Colt 1855 Revolving Shotgun features a side hammer design. This means the hammer is bolted to the side of the firearm's frame, distinguishing it from designs with centrally mounted hammers.

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