History of WWI Primer 139: Portuguese Abadie 1886 Documentary

Published on April 13, 2021
Duration: 68:28

This video provides an in-depth review of the Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver, detailing its history, design, and unique Abadie gate loading system. The presenter highlights the innovative mechanism that allows for safe loading and unloading by disengaging the hammer when the gate is open. Technical specifications, historical context of its adoption by Portugal, and a comparison to contemporary revolvers are discussed, offering a comprehensive look at this significant firearm.

Quick Summary

The Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver is distinguished by its innovative 'Abadie gate' system, which automatically disengages the hammer when the loading gate is opened. This feature enhances safety during loading and unloading. Chambered in the proprietary 9.1x17mm rimmed cartridge, it offered performance comparable to the .38 S&W and influenced subsequent firearm designs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Portuguese Abadie 1886
  2. 00:38Abadie 1886 Specifications and Overview
  3. 01:45Historical Context: Portugal's Military and Firearms
  4. 03:56Revolver Commissions and Debates in Portugal
  5. 07:50The Inventor: Isaac Ismail Abadie
  6. 09:56Abadie's Patent and Belgian Gunsmiths
  7. 11:27Adoption of the Abadie 1878 Model
  8. 11:46Key Features: Removable Side Plate and Abadie Gate
  9. 13:13Demonstration: Abadie Gate Loading and Hammer Disengagement
  10. 14:42Cavalry Considerations and Abadie Action
  11. 15:13Abadie 1878 Officer's Revolver
  12. 15:36Concerns and Proposed Safety Features
  13. 17:32Competitor Designs and Rebounding Hammers
  14. 21:04Abadie 1878 vs. 1886: Mechanical Differences
  15. 21:25Animation: Abadie Gate System Explained
  16. 23:42Abadie 1878 to 1886 Evolution
  17. 24:14Trials for a New Army Revolver
  18. 25:01The Abadie 1886: Longer Barrel and Updates
  19. 25:25Overall Tour of the Abadie 1886
  20. 25:50Takedown and Cylinder Removal
  21. 26:50Markings and Manufacturer Identification
  22. 30:09Service Life and Ammunition Production
  23. 31:22Fielding the Abadie 1886 to Portuguese Forces
  24. 33:00Colonial Service and Notable Owners
  25. 33:56Replacement and Later Service Life
  26. 36:04Post-Service Market and Conversions
  27. 36:22Legacy of Leonard Soleille and SJD
  28. 37:15Death of Isaac Abadie and Influence
  29. 38:25May's Shooting Impressions of the Abadie 1886
  30. 41:37Ergonomics and Pointability
  31. 44:27Ejector Rod and Gate Loading System Discussion
  32. 50:01Shooting the Abadie 1886: Trigger and Recoil
  33. 52:07Troubleshooting and Reliability Issues
  34. 55:50Recoil and Cartridge Performance
  35. 58:23Final Assessment: Abadie 1886 Serviceability
  36. 59:37Sites, Trigger, and Ergonomics Summary
  37. 60:51May's Verdict: Soft Yes
  38. 62:24Comparison to Contemporary Revolvers
  39. 65:03Conclusion: The Abadie as a Gate Loader's Last Stand

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique feature of the Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver?

The Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver's most unique feature is the 'Abadie gate' system. When the loading gate is opened, it automatically disengages the hammer, allowing the cylinder to be safely rotated for loading or unloading without the risk of accidental discharge.

What caliber is the Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver chambered in?

The Portuguese Abadie 1886 revolver is chambered in a proprietary 9.1x17mm rimmed cartridge. This cartridge was specifically developed for the Abadie and offered performance roughly comparable to the .38 Smith & Wesson of the era.

Who invented the Abadie gate system?

The Abadie gate system was invented by Isaac Ismail Abadie, a French inventor who fled to Belgium after the Franco-Prussian War. His patent was later sold and adapted for the Portuguese service revolvers.

How did the Abadie 1886 influence later firearms?

The Abadie 1886's innovative gate loading system and solid frame design influenced several later revolvers. Notable examples include the Swiss 1882, Italian 1889 Bodeo, and Austrian Rost & Gasser 1898, showcasing the impact of its mechanics.

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