History of WWI Primer 019*: Italian Bodeo 1889 Documentary

Published on April 27, 2021
Duration: 85:49

This video provides an in-depth historical and technical analysis of the Italian Bodeo 1889 revolver. It covers its development from earlier Italian revolvers, its design features, variations like the trooper and officer models, safety mechanisms, ammunition, and production history. The presenter details the gun's engineering, including its simplified action and unique grip, and discusses its service life through WWI and beyond. The video also includes shooting impressions and a comparison of different Bodeo variants.

Quick Summary

The Italian Bodeo 1889 revolver, chambered in 10.35mm Italian Ordnance, features an 'Abilty' loading system and a distinctive 'leg of lamb' grip designed for safety. It saw extensive service through WWI and beyond, with variations like the Trooper (Type A) and Officer (Type B) models.

Chapters

  1. 00:00:00Introduction: Bodeo 1889 Overview
  2. 00:01:58Predecessors: Schmiedel-del-Vigni 1874 & Glisenti
  3. 00:05:43Development: Carlo Bodeo's Patents
  4. 00:09:54The Bodeo 1889 Trooper Model (Type A)
  5. 00:13:29Bodeo 1889 Disassembly and Action
  6. 00:17:51Bodeo 1889 Animation: How it Works
  7. 00:21:22Ammunition: 10.35mm Italian Ordnance Update
  8. 00:22:53The Bodeo 1889 Officer Model (Type B)
  9. 00:26:02Officer Model Safety Mechanism (De Lauzo)
  10. 00:32:22Navy Bodeo 1889 & Converted Schmiedel-del-Vigni
  11. 00:41:20Frame Issues & Steel Plug Modifications
  12. 00:43:09Bodeo 1889 Production Details
  13. 00:49:56Bodeo 1889 Service in WWI & Spanish Production
  14. 00:51:51Refurbished Spanish-Made Bodeo 1889
  15. 00:53:51Bodeo 1889 Service Through WWII & Post-War
  16. 00:54:35Bodeo Variations: Model 1902 & Model 89 Lightened
  17. 00:57:13May's Shooting Impressions & Comparisons
  18. 01:07:13Shooting Performance: Recoil & Accuracy
  19. 01:13:00Conclusion: Bodeo 1889 Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cartridge used by the Italian Bodeo 1889 revolver?

The Italian Bodeo 1889 revolver primarily uses the 10.35mm Italian Ordnance cartridge. This cartridge evolved over time, initially being a black powder round and later updated to smokeless powder by 1890.

What are the main variations of the Bodeo 1889 revolver?

The main variations are the Type A (Trooper Model) with a folding trigger and the Type B (Officer Model) with a standard trigger and trigger guard. There are also Navy variants and converted Schmiedel-del-Vigni models.

What is the 'Abilty' loading system on the Bodeo 1889?

The Abilty system on the Bodeo 1889 allows for faster loading and unloading. When the loading gate is opened, it compresses the hammer nose, disengaging it so the cylinder can be indexed by pulling the trigger without firing the gun.

Why is the grip of the Bodeo 1889 often called the 'leg of lamb'?

The grip is nicknamed the 'leg of lamb' due to its unusual, thin, and deeply angled shape. While intended to enhance safety by making accidental trigger engagement difficult, it is often criticized for its ergonomics.

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