Why Revolvers Have Cylinder Gaps!..Do They Hurt Performance & Can You Fix It?

Published on June 7, 2026
Duration: 5:06

This video explains the necessity of cylinder gaps in revolvers, primarily for thermal expansion and reliable function. It debunks the myth that eliminating the gap significantly improves ballistics, citing historical designs that failed due to complexity and reduced reliability. The expert emphasizes that the slight energy loss is inconsequential compared to the benefits of the proven revolver design.

Quick Summary

Revolvers feature a cylinder gap to prevent binding caused by thermal expansion during firing. While it allows some gas escape, its impact on ballistics is negligible. Eliminating the gap historically led to increased complexity and reduced reliability, making the gap a crucial element for dependable firearm function.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Cylinder Gap Purpose
  2. 00:26Context: Barrel Swap & Questions
  3. 00:56What is a Cylinder Gap?
  4. 01:15Why the Gap is Necessary: Thermal Expansion
  5. 01:30Impact on Ballistics: Gas Escape
  6. 02:10Can You Eliminate the Gap? Historical Attempts
  7. 02:51Ballistic Gains vs. Reliability Loss
  8. 03:21Conclusion: Inconsequential Loss
  9. 03:41Semi-Auto vs. Revolver Gaps

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do revolvers have a gap between the cylinder and the barrel?

Revolvers have a cylinder gap primarily to prevent binding due to thermal expansion. As the firearm heats up during firing, the cylinder and frame expand. The gap allows for this expansion without the parts seizing, ensuring continued reliable function.

Does the cylinder gap in a revolver negatively affect ballistics?

While a small amount of gas and energy escapes through the cylinder gap, its impact on ballistics is generally considered inconsequential. Historical attempts to eliminate the gap for ballistic gains have proven unsuccessful and often led to reduced reliability.

Can the cylinder gap on a revolver be eliminated?

Technically, designs exist that could minimize or eliminate the gap, often involving complex mechanisms to draw the cylinder back during rotation. However, these designs historically proved less reliable and more complicated, leading to their failure in the market.

What is the main advantage of the cylinder gap in revolvers?

The main advantage of the cylinder gap is ensuring the revolver's reliability and functionality, especially under heat. It prevents the cylinder from binding against the barrel's forcing cone as components expand during firing, maintaining smooth operation.

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