From the Vault: The Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver

Published on December 13, 2019
Duration: 4:16

This video provides an expert examination of a rare Winchester experimental military revolver from the 1870s, featuring a unique swing-out cylinder mechanism. The presenters, Keith Ford and Steve Ostrem, highlight its exceptional condition, historical context, and mechanical superiority compared to contemporary designs like the Colt Single Action Army. The discussion touches upon its .44-40 caliber, industry agreements between manufacturers, and its rarity as one of only four known examples with this feature.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver is a rare 1870s experimental military prototype, notable for its advanced single-action mechanism featuring a cylinder that swings out to the right for simultaneous ejection. Chambered in .44-40, it represents a significant mechanical innovation, with only four known examples existing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Rare Winchester Revolver
  2. 00:18Historical Context: 1870s Military Prototype
  3. 00:55Mechanical Features: Swing-Out Cylinder
  4. 01:30Caliber and Market Competition (.44-40)
  5. 02:12Design Comparisons: S&W and Colt
  6. 03:14Rarity and Conclusion: Superior Mechanics

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver historically significant?

Its significance lies in being an experimental military revolver from the 1870s featuring a rare swing-out cylinder mechanism, one of only four known examples. This design predated similar modern handgun features and showcased advanced engineering for its era.

What caliber was the Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver chambered in?

This particular Winchester experimental revolver is chambered in .44-40 caliber. This was a strategic choice as it matched the caliber of the highly successful 1873 Winchester rifle, allowing for ammunition interchangeability.

How did the Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver compare to Colt revolvers of the time?

The Winchester's swing-out cylinder offered simultaneous ejection, a feature considered superior to the Colt Single Action Army's top-break or gate-loading methods. Its design also drew comparisons to Smith & Wesson's use of the Rollin White patent.

What is the rarity of the Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver?

The Winchester Swing-Out Cylinder Revolver is exceptionally rare. The video highlights that this specific feature, the swing-out cylinder, is found on only four known examples, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.

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