Semi Auto Revolvers?

Published on June 24, 2020
Duration: 19:13

This video explores the rare semi-automatic revolvers, specifically the Webley-Fosbury and a 1980s Mateba. Martin Novak of Amble Gunsmithing discusses their unique mechanisms, historical context, and operational differences compared to traditional revolvers. The Mateba is highlighted for its complex semi-automatic action and low bore axis, while the Webley-Fosbury is noted for its single-action-only operation and distinct manual of arms. Both are presented as significant, albeit complex, advancements in revolver design.

Quick Summary

Semi-automatic revolvers, like the rare Webley-Fosbury and the complex Mateba, utilize their firing action to cycle the cylinder and cock the hammer, offering a consistent trigger pull akin to semi-automatic pistols. This contrasts with traditional revolvers that rely on manual cocking or a heavy double-action pull for each shot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Semi-Automatic Revolvers
  2. 00:39History of the Webley-Fosbury
  3. 01:03The 1980s Mateba Revolver
  4. 01:55Mateba's Semi-Automatic Action
  5. 02:31Trigger Pull Comparison
  6. 03:23Handling and Accuracy
  7. 04:22Mateba Maintenance Challenges
  8. 05:35Complexity of the Mateba
  9. 06:01Troubleshooting the Mateba
  10. 06:21The All-Traumatic Revolver
  11. 07:25The LeMat Revolver
  12. 08:04Webley-Fosbury: Single Action Only
  13. 08:51Webley-Fosbury vs. Mateba Complexity
  14. 09:07Webley-Fosbury Cylinder Indexing
  15. 09:49Webley-Fosbury Simplicity
  16. 10:05Comparing 1899 vs. 1896 Designs
  17. 10:18Velocity vs. Projectile Size
  18. 11:25Webley Design Characteristics
  19. 11:39Webley-Fosbury Safety Feature
  20. 12:06Owner's Maintenance and Shooting Habits
  21. 12:41Webley-Fosbury Production Numbers
  22. 13:05First Impressions of Rare Firearms
  23. 13:32Rarity of These Machines
  24. 13:39The Astra Revolver
  25. 14:11Broomhandle Mauser Comparison
  26. 14:32Existence of Semi-Auto Revolvers
  27. 14:58Other Unique Revolver Designs
  28. 15:08Mateba in .454 Casull
  29. 15:17Carbine Versions and Stocks
  30. 15:32Accuracy of the Mateba
  31. 16:00Recoil Impulse and Muzzle Flip
  32. 16:15Aftermarket Muzzle Brake
  33. 16:20Webley's High Thrust Axis
  34. 16:46Unique Sound of the Mateba
  35. 17:00Appreciation for Rare Hardware
  36. 17:31Future Collaborations
  37. 18:09The Hunley Submarine Project
  38. 18:42Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between a semi-automatic revolver and a traditional revolver?

A traditional revolver requires manual cocking for single-action or uses a heavy double-action pull for each shot. A semi-automatic revolver, like the Mateba, uses the recoil or action of firing to cycle the mechanism, rotate the cylinder, and cock the hammer, providing a consistent trigger pull similar to a semi-automatic pistol.

What makes the Webley-Fosbury a unique firearm?

The Webley-Fosbury is one of the only mainstream, mass-produced semi-automatic revolvers ever made. It features a distinctive action where the barrel moves rearward to rotate the cylinder and is operated in single-action only, requiring manual cocking for each shot.

Why is the Mateba revolver considered so complex?

The Mateba is known for its incredibly intricate internal mechanism, designed to achieve semi-automatic operation in a revolver format. One example has been documented to contain 141 individual parts, making disassembly and maintenance a significant challenge for gunsmiths.

What are the advantages of a low bore axis in a firearm?

A low bore axis, where the barrel is positioned closer to the shooter's hand, significantly reduces muzzle flip and felt recoil. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, as the sights tend to stay on target more effectively between shots.

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