Reprocussion 001: Colt Paterson Revolver No.5 Part 1

Published on December 26, 2020
Duration: 72:38

This video provides a detailed look at the Colt Paterson No.5 reproduction revolver, covering its historical context, Samuel Colt's early innovations, and practical aspects of its operation. It emphasizes the unique loading process for black powder percussion revolvers, which requires disassembly, and discusses the firearm's ergonomics, shooting characteristics, and historical significance as a foundational piece in American firearm design.

Quick Summary

Loading a Colt Paterson revolver requires disassembly: remove the locking wedge, separate the frame from the cylinder spindle, load powder, ball, and percussion caps into each chamber, then reassemble the firearm. This process is more time-consuming than modern firearms due to its black powder percussion cap mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Reprocussion Series
  2. 00:41Colt Percussion Cap Black Powder Revolvers
  3. 01:22Colt Paterson Revolver No.5 Reproduction Overview
  4. 02:07The Story of Samuel Colt
  5. 04:36Colt's Early Inspiration and Prototype
  6. 07:10Colt's Journey to Patenting
  7. 12:20Patent Arms Manufacturing Company Charter
  8. 13:32Pliny Lawton and Machine Manufacturing
  9. 15:31Seeking US Government Contracts
  10. 19:17Colt Paterson Pistol Models (Pocket, Belt, Holster)
  11. 22:27Colt Paterson No.5 Holster Model Reproduction
  12. 23:01Reproduction vs. Original Firearms
  13. 23:45Black Powder Percussion Cap Technology
  14. 24:57Colt Paterson's Unique Features
  15. 29:00Disassembly: The Locking Wedge
  16. 32:16Colt Paterson Loading Tools
  17. 37:09Internal Mechanics Animation
  18. 38:53Loading the Colt Paterson for Firing
  19. 43:06Demonstration: Cap Jam Issue
  20. 44:17Discussion: Historical Context and Operation
  21. 45:30Loading Process Challenges
  22. 53:28Shooting Impressions: Ergonomics and Handling
  23. 55:37Cocking the Hammer Difficulty
  24. 57:53Sights and Accuracy
  25. 1:00:09Trigger Feel and Lock Time
  26. 1:04:39Historical Data and Research Challenges
  27. 1:06:16Overall Assessment and Future Improvements

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you load a Colt Paterson revolver?

Loading a Colt Paterson requires disassembly: remove the locking wedge, separate the frame from the cylinder spindle, load powder, ball, and percussion caps into each chamber, then reassemble the firearm.

What are the main challenges of shooting a Colt Paterson revolver?

Challenges include the difficult hammer cocking action, lack of a trigger guard, the time-consuming loading process requiring disassembly, and potential for cap jams. Ergonomics are also considered awkward compared to modern firearms.

What caliber is the Colt Paterson No.5 reproduction featured in the video?

The Colt Paterson No.5 reproduction featured in the video is chambered in .36 caliber and has a five-round cylinder.

Why is disassembly necessary for loading a Colt Paterson?

Disassembly is necessary because the Colt Paterson's design does not allow for direct loading of powder, balls, and caps into the cylinder while it is attached to the frame, unlike many later revolvers.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from C&Rsenal

View all →