Colt Prototype "Zig-Zag" Root Revolvers

Published on November 24, 2016
Duration: 6:59

This entry details the rare Colt Prototype Zig-Zag Root Revolvers, focusing on their unique mechanical innovations. It highlights Elisha K. Root's contributions, the 'creeping loading lever,' and the experimental 'Zig-Zag' cylinder indexing system. The analysis includes comparisons to later designs and emphasizes the historical significance and rarity of these experimental pieces, drawing on expert insights from Ian McCollum.

Quick Summary

The Colt Prototype Zig-Zag Root Revolvers showcase Elisha K. Root's engineering prowess with features like the 'creeping loading lever' for easier loading and the experimental 'Zig-Zag' cylinder indexing system. This system used a hammer-linked rod engaging diagonal cylinder grooves for rotation, representing an early, albeit less refined, precursor to modern automatic cylinder indexing mechanisms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1855 Sidehammer Prototypes
  2. 01:00The Creeping Loading Lever Explained
  3. 02:12Zig-Zag Cylinder Mechanism Deep Dive
  4. 03:21Comparison to Later Designs & Patents
  5. 04:41Prototype Design Variations
  6. 05:49Markings and Extreme Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Zig-Zag' cylinder indexing system on Colt prototypes?

The 'Zig-Zag' system uses a rod connected to the hammer that slides within diagonal grooves on the cylinder's exterior. As the hammer cocks, this movement rotates the cylinder to the next chamber, a precursor to more modern indexing mechanisms.

Who was Elisha K. Root and what was his contribution to Colt revolvers?

Elisha K. Root was a key engineer and later president of Colt. He contributed significantly to designs like the sidehammer and the innovative 'creeping loading lever' mechanism found on early Colt revolvers and prototypes.

What made the 'creeping loading lever' innovative?

The 'creeping loading lever' featured a geared system that provided enhanced leverage for loading projectiles into the cylinder. This was particularly beneficial for smaller pocket revolvers with shorter levers, becoming a standard feature on many subsequent Colt percussion models.

Why are the Colt Prototype Zig-Zag Root Revolvers considered rare and historically significant?

These prototypes represent an extremely rare experimental phase in Colt's history, showcasing early attempts at advanced mechanical systems like the zig-zag cylinder indexing decades before similar concepts became more common in European designs.

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