Thuer Conversion Colt 1849 Revolver

Published on February 23, 2015
Duration: 8:08

This video details the rare Thuer cartridge conversion for the Colt 1849 Pocket Revolver, patented in 1868. It highlights the conversion's unique design, which bypassed Rollin White's cylinder patent by using a front-loading, rimless cartridge and a specialized backing ring with a firing pin. The conversion allowed for easy reversion to percussion and included a novel safety feature.

Quick Summary

The Thuer conversion for the Colt 1849 was unique for bypassing Rollin White's patent using a front-loading, rimless cartridge and requiring no permanent frame modification. It featured a specialized backing ring with a firing pin and a safety position for carrying loaded chambers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1849 Thuer Conversion
  2. 01:27Mechanical Design & Patent Bypass
  3. 02:30Internal Components & Firing Mechanism
  4. 05:22Safety Features Explained
  5. 07:35Rarity & Auction Context

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Thuer conversion unique for the Colt 1849 revolver?

The Thuer conversion was unique because it bypassed Rollin White's cylinder patent by using a front-loading, rimless cartridge. It also required no permanent modifications to the revolver's frame or barrel, allowing it to be easily reverted to its original percussion configuration.

How did the Thuer conversion's firing mechanism work?

It featured a specialized backing ring with a firing pin. When the hammer was cocked and released, it struck the firing pin, which then hit the primer of the front-loaded cartridge. The backing ring remained stationary while the cylinder rotated.

What safety feature did the Thuer conversion offer?

A notable safety feature allowed the revolver to be carried with all six chambers loaded. By rotating the backing plate, the hammer rested on a dummy position away from the firing pin, preventing accidental discharge until the plate was automatically moved during cocking.

How rare are Thuer conversions for the Colt 1849?

Thuer conversions are exceptionally rare. Only about 5,000 were produced, and very few examples have survived to the present day, making them highly sought after by collectors.

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