History Primer 153: US Colt 1902 Philippine Model Documentary

Published on February 22, 2022
Duration: 53:38

This documentary delves into the Colt 1902 Philippine Model, a martial variant of Colt's double-action revolvers. It highlights the historical context, including its development from the Colt 1878 and its procurement for the Philippine Constabulary due to the inadequacy of .38 caliber against 'Juramentado' warriors. The video details significant modifications, such as a strengthened mainspring for reliable ignition with military primers, resulting in a heavy 28-pound trigger pull and a larger trigger guard.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1902 Philippine Model is a .45 caliber double-action revolver modified from the Colt 1878. Developed for the Philippine Constabulary, it features a strengthened mainspring for reliable ignition with military primers, resulting in a heavy 28-pound trigger pull and an oversized trigger guard for leverage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 1902 Philippine Model
  2. 01:19Colt Double Action History (1877 & 1878)
  3. 02:31Early Military Trials & Issues
  4. 06:10Design Comparisons: Colt vs. European
  5. 10:30Philippine-American War Context
  6. 13:33Need for .45 Caliber Stopping Power
  7. 18:151902 Modifications: Heavy Trigger Pull
  8. 23:36Service Life and Surplus Sales
  9. 26:26Range Testing: Trigger Pull & Ergonomics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Colt 1902 Philippine Model?

The Colt 1902 Philippine Model is a martial version of Colt's double-action revolvers, specifically a modified Colt 1878. It was developed to provide .45 caliber stopping power for the Philippine Constabulary and features a significantly strengthened mainspring.

Why was the Colt 1902 Philippine Model developed?

It was developed in response to the need for more effective firearms for the Philippine Constabulary during the insurrection. Standard .38 caliber revolvers were found insufficient against determined adversaries, prompting a request for .45 caliber handguns.

What are the key technical features of the Colt 1902 Philippine Model?

Key features include its .45 Colt caliber, a 6-round capacity, and a 6-inch barrel. Notably, it has a heavily strengthened mainspring resulting in an extremely heavy trigger pull, measured at 28 pounds, and an oversized trigger guard.

What issues did the Colt 1878 face that led to the 1902 modifications?

The Colt 1878 experienced issues such as light primer strikes and a liability for accidental discharges. Modifications for the 1902 model focused on strengthening the mainspring to ensure reliable ignition with military primers, albeit at the cost of a very heavy trigger pull.

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