"Hill's Patent" Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver: Blatant Patent Theft in 1878

Published on September 25, 2023
Duration: 9:43

This video from Forgotten Weapons, hosted by Ian McCollum, investigates the "Hill's Patent" Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver. It details how the gun's prominent "Hill's Patent" marking is misleading, as the patented ejector system was actually invented by Dupré-Joassart in Belgium five years prior. The analysis highlights 19th-century patent law complexities and potential patent theft.

Quick Summary

The "Hill's Patent" marking on the Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver is misleading. The firearm's automatic star ejector system was patented in 1873 by Dupré-Joassart, five years before W.J. Hill's 1878 patent, which covered only the lockwork. This suggests potential patent misrepresentation or theft in the 19th century.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Hill's Patent Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver
  2. 00:42Markings and Identification
  3. 01:16Manufacturing Context
  4. 02:44Calibers and Variations
  5. 03:06Ejection Mechanism Demonstration
  6. 04:20Patent Investigation
  7. 05:07The True Inventor
  8. 06:01Patent Theft Analysis
  9. 08:34Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the "Hill's Patent" marking on the Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver?

The "Hill's Patent" marking is misleading. While W.J. Hill patented a lockwork system in 1878, the prominent ejector system on the revolver was actually patented five years earlier by Belgian inventor Dupré-Joassart, indicating potential patent misrepresentation or theft.

Who was the true inventor of the ejector system used in the Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver?

The automatic star ejector system featured on the Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver was invented and patented by Dupré-Joassart in Belgium in 1873. W.J. Hill's patent from 1878 pertained to the lockwork, not the ejector mechanism.

What caliber was the Hill's Patent Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver typically chambered in?

The Hill's Patent Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver was commonly chambered in the .450 caliber. However, historical records and variations indicate that versions were also produced in .32 and .38 calibers.

How did W.J. Hill potentially exploit the patent system with the Stanley Bull-Dog Revolver?

It is suggested that W.J. Hill may have misrepresented his patent to manufacturers, possibly implying it covered the entire firearm's innovative features, including the ejector system, to collect royalties on a design he did not invent.

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