Mauser "Zigzag" Revolver Patent Model and its Unique Cartridge

Published on September 16, 2020
Duration: 8:38

This review details the Mauser 1878 'Zigzag' revolver patent model, highlighting its unique bottlenecked 11mm cartridge and early design features. The video contrasts the patent model with production versions, noting differences in barrel length, safety levers, frame markings, and cylinder groove profiles. It also covers the revolver's submission to military trials and its eventual rejection in favor of the simpler 1879 Reichsrevolver.

Quick Summary

The Mauser 1878 'Zigzag' revolver patent model featured a unique bottlenecked 11mm cartridge, a scaled-down version of the Mauser 1871 rifle round. This early design differed from production models with a longer barrel and rounded cylinder grooves, and was ultimately rejected by military trials for being too complex and expensive.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Mauser 1878 Zigzag Patent Model
  2. 01:0019th Century German Patent System Explained
  3. 02:00Patent Model vs. Production Differences
  4. 03:18Unique Bottlenecked Ammunition
  5. 05:11Mechanical and Aesthetic Variations
  6. 06:27Original Disassembly Tool
  7. 07:08Military Trials and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Mauser 1878 Zigzag revolver's cartridge unique?

The early Mauser Zigzag revolvers used a distinctive bottlenecked 11mm cartridge, which was a scaled-down version of the Mauser 1871 rifle round. This was later replaced by a straight-walled 10.55mm German ordnance round.

What are the key differences between the Mauser Zigzag patent model and production versions?

The patent model typically has a longer barrel and lacks a safety lever found on later versions. Markings are also different, with the patent model showing 'PATENT' on the barrel and maker details on the frame, unlike production models.

Why was the Mauser 1878 Zigzag revolver rejected for German military service?

Despite its innovative design and reliability, the Mauser Zigzag was deemed too complex and expensive for military adoption. The German military ultimately chose the simpler and more cost-effective 1879 Reichsrevolver.

What was the purpose of the zigzag grooves on the Mauser revolver cylinder?

The zigzag grooves on the cylinder of the Mauser Zigzag revolver served a mechanical purpose: they engaged with a locking bolt to rotate the cylinder incrementally with each cocking of the hammer, a key feature of its unique action.

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