The 10 barrelled, bolt-action, self-defence pistol with firearms and weapon expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on April 12, 2023
Duration: 23:45

This video examines the highly unusual Tester 10-barrel, bolt-action, self-defense pistol. Expert Jonathan Ferguson of the Royal Armouries details its complex loading and ignition system, which involves a multi-component feed device, percussion caps, and modified 22 Winchester Rimfire cartridges. The pistol features a unique bolt-action for locking the barrels and external hammers for firing, allowing for either five or ten shots to be discharged simultaneously.

Quick Summary

The Tester 10-barrel pistol features a unique ignition system where a hammer strikes a firing pin, igniting a percussion cap. The cap's flame is then channeled through steel pins and five flame paths to ignite the modified .22 Winchester Rimfire cartridge, allowing for rapid multi-shot firing.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction and Unboxing
  2. 00:33Revealing the Tester Pistol
  3. 01:48J.P. Tester and Patent Information
  4. 02:45The 10-Barrel Design
  5. 02:55Bolt-Action Mechanism Explained
  6. 03:11Hammer and Firing Pin System
  7. 04:03Detailed Bolt Action Operation
  8. 04:52Extractor Functionality
  9. 05:37.22 Caliber Confirmation
  10. 06:12Overall Design and Barrel Cluster
  11. 06:44Sights and Aesthetics
  12. 07:23Trigger Guard and Grip Panels
  13. 08:09Bluing and Finish Details
  14. 08:39Forend and Trigger Component
  15. 09:36The Critical Feed Device
  16. 09:51Feed Device Components
  17. 10:44Percussion Cap Ignition
  18. 11:15Flame Channels and Touch Holes
  19. 11:48Cartridge Modification
  20. 13:20Ignition Sequence Explained
  21. 13:49Selective Hammer Firing
  22. 14:25Lack of Safety Catch Implications
  23. 14:50Loading the 'Sandwich of Death'
  24. 15:02Safety Latch Operation
  25. 15:21Inserting the Feed Device
  26. 15:54Closing and Locking
  27. 16:05Loaded Chamber Indicator
  28. 16:46Complexity and Appeal
  29. 16:52Patents and Design Evolution
  30. 17:37Ignition System Evolution
  31. 18:33Ammunition Details: .22 WRF
  32. 19:14.22 WRF Cartridge History
  33. 19:34Cartridge Modification Process
  34. 20:14Why Not Rimfire Crush?
  35. 20:44Drill Rounds and Fired Cases
  36. 21:17Purpose and Marketing: Why Buy?
  37. 21:27Self-Defense and Novelty
  38. 22:03Range Experience
  39. 22:20Actual Self-Defense Viability
  40. 22:32Shot Spread Logic
  41. 23:10Conclusion and Channel Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Tester 10-barrel pistol's ignition system unique?

The Tester pistol uses a complex ignition sequence: a hammer strikes a firing pin, which ignites a percussion cap. The cap's flame is then channeled through steel pins and five flame paths to ignite the cartridge, a highly unusual method for a firearm.

What type of ammunition does the Tester 10-barrel pistol use?

It uses a modified version of the .22 Winchester Rimfire (.22 WRF) cartridge. The cases are drilled with small holes near the rim to allow ignition from the pistol's specialized flame channels.

How does the bolt-action mechanism on the Tester pistol function?

Unlike typical bolt-actions that feed cartridges, the Tester's bolt-action is solely for locking the 10-barrel cluster securely into the receiver. It provides a robust lock-up for the firearm.

What is the intended purpose of the Tester 10-barrel pistol?

While not explicitly stated by the maker, its design suggests potential use for self-defense due to its rapid multi-shot capability, or as a novelty item for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate unique and complex firearm technology.

Does the Tester 10-barrel pistol have a safety mechanism?

No, the Tester pistol notably lacks a manual safety catch. This means it must be handled with extreme caution, and it is recommended to carry it with the hammers down, similar to a single-action revolver.

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