Savage 1861 Ring Cocker

Published on October 21, 2025
Duration: 2:01

The Savage 1861 Navy is a unique Civil War-era revolver, with most units purchased by the US Army despite its 'Navy' designation. Its distinctive 'ring cocker' mechanism cocks the hammer and indexes the cylinder simultaneously. The revolver features an innovative gas seal and toggle lock system, similar to later designs like the Nagant 1895 and Luger, to prevent gas leakage.

Quick Summary

The Savage 1861 Navy revolver features a unique 'ring cocker' mechanism below the trigger that cocks the hammer and indexes the cylinder simultaneously. It also incorporates an innovative gas seal and toggle lock system, similar to later designs, to prevent gas leakage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Savage 1861 Navy
  2. 00:25Internal Action & Hammer
  3. 00:51The Unique Ring Cocker Mechanism
  4. 01:12Gas Seal & Toggle Lock Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'ring cocker' on the Savage 1861 Navy?

The 'ring cocker' is a unique cocking lever located below the trigger on the Savage 1861 Navy revolver. Pulling this ring back simultaneously cocks the hammer and indexes the cylinder to the next chamber.

Did the US Army use the Savage 1861 Navy revolver?

Yes, despite its 'Navy' designation, the US Army was the primary purchaser of the Savage 1861. Out of 11,000 units produced, approximately 10,000 were bought by the Army.

What is the gas seal feature on the Savage 1861?

The Savage 1861 features a gas seal where the cylinder moves forward to meet the barrel's forcing cone. This minimizes gas leakage, similar to the later Nagant 1895 revolver.

What caliber is the Savage 1861 Navy?

The Savage 1861 Navy revolver is chambered in .36 caliber. This caliber designation is what distinguishes it as the 'Navy' model, as Army-preferred revolvers were typically larger, like .44 caliber.

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