Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" 1860

Published on October 18, 2025
Duration: 3:00

This video details the Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" revolver from 1860, highlighting its advanced features for its time, including a center-fire system with a unique brass casing that could cause cylinder rotation issues. It explains the specific loading and unloading procedure involving a safety position and a gate mechanism, and touches upon its historical procurement by the US Army during the Civil War.

Quick Summary

The 1860 Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" revolver was an advanced firearm for its era, featuring early single-action and double-action mechanisms and a center-fire system. Its brass casings could bulge, affecting cylinder rotation, and it required a specific gate-loading procedure. The US Army acquired 106 units for the Civil War.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" revolver technologically advanced for 1860?

The "Raphael" was advanced for 1860 due to its early single-action and double-action capabilities and its center-fire system. It also featured a unique loading mechanism and accessible lockwork for its time.

What was unique about the "Raphael" revolver's center-fire ammunition?

The "Raphael" used a full brass casing with a center-fire primer. A potential issue was that the soft brass could bulge at the rear when fired, sometimes making cylinder rotation difficult.

How is the Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" loaded and unloaded?

Loading and unloading involves advancing the cylinder to a specific safety position, depressing a stiff spring to open the gate, loading each chamber individually by rotating the cylinder, and then closing the gate.

Did the US Army use the Pidault-Cordier "Raphael" revolver?

Yes, the US Army purchased 106 units of the "Raphael" in September 1861 for use during the Civil War. It was imported into America by George Raphael.

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