Kerr Revolvers: An English Source for Confederate Arms

Published on October 15, 2017
Duration: 13:21

This review details the Kerr revolver, an English-made firearm significant to Confederate arms procurement during the US Civil War. Approximately 9,000 Kerr revolvers, primarily in .44 caliber, were supplied by the London Armoury Company. The design by James Kerr is noted for its reliability, durability, and unique features like rear cylinder removal and fouling protection.

Quick Summary

The Kerr revolver was a significant English firearm source for the Confederacy during the US Civil War, with around 9,000 .44 caliber, 5-shot models procured. Designed by James Kerr for reliability and durability, it features unique fouling protection and a rear cylinder removal system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Kerr Revolvers
  2. 00:54London Armoury Company History
  3. 01:41Confederate Procurement Details
  4. 02:37James Kerr's Design Origins
  5. 03:43Caliber and Capacity (.44)
  6. 04:29Single-Action Mechanical Operation
  7. 05:35Unique Cylinder Removal
  8. 06:28Fouling Protection Features
  9. 09:06Markings and Serial Numbers
  10. 10:25Understanding Assembly Numbers
  11. 11:14Confederate Provenance Marks

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the significance of the Kerr revolver for the Confederacy?

The Kerr revolver, manufactured by the London Armoury Company, was a key source of handguns for the Confederacy during the US Civil War. Approximately 9,000 of these .44 caliber revolvers were procured by Confederate agent Caleb Huse.

Who designed the Kerr revolver?

The Kerr revolver was designed by James Kerr. He developed it after Robert Adams departed the London Armoury Company, aiming to create a reliable and durable handgun for their catalog.

What caliber and capacity did Confederate Kerr revolvers typically have?

Confederate contract Kerr revolvers were predominantly .44 caliber, referred to in British terms as 54 bore. They featured a 5-shot cylinder capacity.

How does the Kerr revolver's mechanism differ from its appearance?

Although the trigger of the Confederate Kerr revolver might appear to be double-action, the firearm is actually single-action. This design choice was made to simplify and economize the production process.

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