Colt 1878/1902 Rebound & Half-Cock Fears

Published on November 27, 2025
Duration: 3:00

This guide details the safe carry procedure for Colt 1878/1902 double-action revolvers, as explained by C&Rsenal. It covers understanding the 'fired,' 'rebound,' and 'half-cock' positions and how to load and prepare the firearm for carry by ensuring the hammer rests securely in the rebound notch, preventing accidental discharge. Proper manipulation of the hammer and cylinder rotation are key to safe operation.

Quick Summary

Safe carry for Colt 1878/1902 revolvers involves understanding the 'rebound' and 'half-cock' hammer positions. The rebound notch retracts the firing pin for safe carrying, while the half-cock notch is needed to rotate the cylinder for loading. Carrying with the hammer fully forward ('fired' position) is dangerous.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Colt Safety Concerns
  2. 00:13The Fired State and Carry Risks
  3. 00:27Rebound and Half-Cock Positions
  4. 00:55Loading and Prepping for Carry
  5. 01:38Historical Reputation and Mechanical Risks

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary safety concerns when carrying an old Colt revolver like the 1878/1902?

The main concern is carrying the firearm with the hammer fully forward ('fired' position), where the firing pin rests on the primer. A drop or impact could cause an accidental discharge. Safe carry involves resting the hammer in the rebound notch.

How do the rebound and half-cock notches function on a Colt 1878/1902?

The rebound notch (first click) retracts the firing pin for safe carry. The half-cock notch (second click) is necessary to allow the cylinder to rotate for loading or unloading, unlike some European designs.

Is it safe to carry six rounds in a Colt 1878/1902 revolver?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to carry six rounds if the hammer is properly placed in the rebound notch. Carrying with the hammer fully forward is unsafe due to the risk of accidental discharge.

What is the significance of the loading gate on Colt revolvers?

The loading gate, typically on the right side of the frame, allows for the individual loading of cartridges into the cylinder. It requires the hammer to be in the half-cock position to swing open and allow cylinder rotation.

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