Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle

Published on September 2, 2015
Duration: 7:39

This guide details the disassembly of the Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle, focusing on accessing the cylinder for reloading. The process involves a specific button-released hook that allows the barrel to pivot, enabling cylinder removal. The video highlights the historical context and mechanical intricacies of this rare firearm, including its patent-related design modifications and practical flaws like cylinder gap and chain fire.

Quick Summary

The Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle, produced by the Massachusetts Arms Company, is a rare firearm estimated at 16-50 units. Its design was modified with manual indexing and a Maynard tape primer to avoid Colt's patent on automatic cylinder rotation, though it still suffered from cylinder gap issues and potential chain fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle
  2. 00:31Historical Context and Rarity
  3. 01:17Patent Disputes and Design Changes
  4. 02:27Practical Design Flaws: Cylinder Gap & Chain Fire
  5. 03:31Disassembly Process Demonstration
  6. 04:53Indexing Mechanism Explained
  7. 06:55Manufacturer and Caliber Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle historically significant?

Its significance lies in its rarity, estimated production of only 16-50 units, and its design evolution driven by patent disputes with Colt. It showcases early attempts to circumvent firearm patents, leading to unique mechanical solutions like manual indexing.

What were the main design flaws of the Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle?

Like many revolving rifles of its era, it suffered from the cylinder gap issue, which could lead to dangerous 'chain fire' where multiple chambers ignite. This necessitated a specific grip to minimize risk.

How is the Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle disassembled?

Disassembly involves a button-released hook that allows the barrel to pivot upwards, granting access to remove the cylinder for reloading or maintenance. This unique mechanism was part of its design adaptations.

Who manufactured the Wesson & Leavitt Revolving Rifle and in what caliber?

The rifle was manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Company in Chicopee Falls. It is chambered in .40 caliber, reflecting common ammunition sizes for firearms of that period.

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