From the Vault: Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver

Published on March 29, 2019
Duration: 4:31

This video provides an expert-level examination of the rare Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver. It details the unique recoil-operated semi-automatic action, safety features, historical context as a potential military sidearm, and its surprising popularity in competitive shooting due to its consistent trigger and manageable recoil. The review highlights its complexity compared to contemporary pistols.

Quick Summary

The Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver features a unique recoil-operated semi-automatic action where the barrel and cylinder assembly recoils backward, rotating the cylinder and cocking the hammer. Developed by Major Fosbery, it was chambered in calibers like .455 Cordite and .38 Automatic and was popular for target shooting at Bisley matches due to its soft recoil and consistent single-action trigger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Webley-Fosbery
  2. 00:52Unique Semi-Automatic Action
  3. 01:16Safety Features and History
  4. 02:10Caliber and Variants
  5. 02:45Competitive Performance
  6. 03:22Contemporary Context

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique action of the Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver?

The Webley-Fosbery utilizes a recoil-operated semi-automatic action. Upon firing, the barrel and cylinder assembly recoils backward along frame tracks, which in turn rotates the cylinder and cocks the hammer for the next shot.

Why was the Webley-Fosbery popular at Bisley matches?

It was popular at Bisley matches in England due to its soft recoil and consistent single-action trigger pull, which contributed to accuracy and shooter comfort during target practice.

What calibers was the Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver chambered in?

The Webley-Fosbery was chambered in .455 Cordite, typically holding 6 rounds, and an eight-shot version was also produced in .38 Automatic caliber.

Was the Webley-Fosbery adopted as a military sidearm?

While developed around 1900 as a potential military sidearm when reliable semi-automatic pistols were scarce, the Webley-Fosbery was never officially adopted by the military, though many officers purchased them privately.

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