Shooting the 1883 Reichsrevolver

The German Reichsrevolver M1879 is a substantial antique firearm, weighing 2.9 lbs and measuring 13.6 inches. It fires 10.6mm black powder rounds and features a slow gate-loading process with manual cylinder indexing. Despite a smooth trigger and manageable recoil due to its weight, its single-action-only hammer is stiff, the grip offers little assistance, and ejection requires a separate tool.

The Model 1883 Reichsrevolver served as the standard German handgun from 1883 to 1908, evolving from the larger 1879 model with a shortened barrel and improved ergonomics. While the military version was single-action-only with a manual safety, commercial variants like those from Dreyse featured a unique double-action system with two triggers. Both models utilized the 10.6mm German Ordnance caliber and a 6-round cylinder, with military models requiring a separate rod for ejection.

This video provides a detailed explanation of the German Reichsrevolver Model 1879, a historical firearm. It highlights key features such as its 6-shot cylinder, single-action mechanism, manual safety, and gate-loading system without an ejector rod. The content is presented as part of a WWI Primer series, indicating a focus on historical military firearms. The creators encourage viewer support through Patreon and SubscribeStar.

The Model 1879 Reichsrevolver was the German Empire's first standardized revolver, designed for extreme durability despite poor ergonomics. It featured a unique recessed cylinder for safety and a manual safety lever. Lacking an ejector, it required a separate tool for spent casing removal. Its large size and 10.6mm black powder cartridge offered reliability over user comfort.

This video from CandRsenal explores a selection of revolvers from the Great War, highlighting both exemplary and disappointing examples. It delves into various models, offering insights into their design, performance, and historical context. The description provides links to specific revolver reviews featured in the video, as well as support options for the channel and featured sponsors like Ballistol USA.

The Reichsrevolver, despite its historical significance in the German military, is critically examined for its outdated design compared to contemporaries. Its single-action-only mechanism, heavy hammer spring, awkward grip (especially on the 1879 model), cumbersome loading, and difficult ejection system highlight its shortcomings. European designs like the French Chamelot-Delvigne 1873 and Swiss Model 1878 offered superior double-action capabilities, better ergonomics, and integrated ejectors, making the Reichsrevolver a lackluster firearm for its era.

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