Colt's Special Revolver for Airline Pilots

Published on April 3, 2020
Duration: 7:15

This video details a unique Colt revolver developed for Eastern Airlines pilots in the 1970s to combat hijackings. It features a special Zytel cylinder with plaster of Paris bullets designed to disintegrate on impact, preventing over-penetration. The project was canceled, and the revolvers were sold as surplus.

Quick Summary

The Colt airline pilot revolver was a 1970s anti-hijacking measure for Eastern Airlines, featuring a Zytel cylinder with plaster of Paris bullets designed to disintegrate on impact. Safety protocols involved carrying the cylinder and frame separately.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Historical Context: Eastern Airlines Pilot Revolver Proposal
  2. 02:11Specialized Design: Zytel Cylinder & Plaster of Paris Bullets
  3. 04:08Safety Protocols: Separating Cylinder and Frame
  4. 06:21Project Conclusion: Canceled Trials and Surplus Sale

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the special Colt revolver for airline pilots?

The Colt revolver was developed in the 1970s for Eastern Airlines pilots to counter hijackings. It featured specialized ammunition designed to incapacitate threats without over-penetrating the aircraft cabin.

What made the ammunition for the Colt airline pilot revolver unique?

The ammunition used plaster of Paris projectiles housed in plastic sabots. These projectiles were designed to disintegrate upon impact with hard surfaces, minimizing damage to the aircraft.

How was safety ensured with the Colt airline pilot revolver?

For safety, pilots were instructed to carry the cylinder and frame of the revolver separately when not in flight to prevent accidental discharge or unauthorized use.

Why was the Colt airline pilot revolver project ultimately canceled?

The project was canceled because airlines eventually accepted the Federal Sky Marshal program. Only a small number of these experimental revolvers were produced for trials.

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