What The Heck Is This Unusual Weapon?!

Published on November 14, 2022
Duration: 6:12

This video explores an unusual antique firearm: the Greener Humane Cattle Killer, manufactured in Birmingham, England, likely between the 1860s and 1890s. The presenter, initially unfamiliar with the device, identifies it as a weapon due to its rifled bore. While similar to a humane horse killer reviewed by Ian McCollum, this specific model was designed for livestock. The device uses a hammer to strike a firing pin, discharging a bullet into the animal's brain, and features a unique safety mechanism.

Quick Summary

The Greener Humane Cattle Killer is an antique firearm from Birmingham, England, produced between the 1860s and 1890s. It fires a 31 caliber black powder cartridge into livestock for humane dispatch. Its rifled bore and unique extractor/safety mechanism make it a historically interesting weapon.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: What is this unusual weapon?
  2. 00:35Identifying the weapon: Rifled bore
  3. 00:49The reveal: Greener Humane Cattle Killer
  4. 01:01Manufacturer and serial number
  5. 01:05Comparison to Ian McCollum's review
  6. 01:39How it works: Brochure explanation
  7. 01:58Historical context and production dates
  8. 02:14Cartridges and caliber: 31 caliber
  9. 02:37Evidence of use and bore condition
  10. 02:56The rifling question
  11. 03:02The extractor/safety mechanism
  12. 03:22Operation and safety features
  13. 03:55Conclusion: A piece of history

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Greener Humane Cattle Killer?

A Greener Humane Cattle Killer is an antique firearm manufactured in Birmingham, England, designed for the humane dispatch of livestock, primarily cattle, for meat processing. It operates by firing a bullet into the animal's brain.

When were Greener Humane Cattle Killers produced?

These devices were produced by W.W. Greener in Birmingham, England, from approximately the 1860s up until the 1890s. They represent a specific historical approach to livestock management and processing.

What caliber does the Greener Humane Cattle Killer use?

The Greener Humane Cattle Killer utilizes 31 caliber cartridges. This is an obsolete caliber, and the cartridges would have been black powder based, as evidenced by residue found in some examples.

How does the safety mechanism on a Greener Humane Cattle Killer work?

The Greener Humane Cattle Killer features a unique safety mechanism integrated with the cartridge extractor. When loaded, the extractor can be rotated to prevent the firing pin from striking the primer, thus acting as a safety.

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