Cap & Ball Revolver Safety Pins/Notches

Published on March 14, 2026
Duration: 4:55

This expert guide from Dustin of Guns of the West details the safety pins and notches found on Colt-style and Remington-style cap and ball revolvers. It explains how these mechanisms function to lock the hammer between chambers but highlights their limitations, particularly the exposure of adjacent nipples. The speaker advises awareness of these vulnerabilities, suggesting practices like loading five rounds for enhanced safety, especially when carrying.

Quick Summary

Expert Dustin from Guns of the West explains that safety pins on Colt-style and notches on Remington-style cap and ball revolvers lock the hammer between chambers. However, adjacent nipples remain exposed, posing a remote risk of discharge from impact. Loading five rounds is often recommended for enhanced safety, especially when carrying.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cap & Ball Safety
  2. 00:26Colt vs. Remington Safety Features
  3. 00:51Colt-Style Loading & Safety Debate
  4. 01:40Colt Safety Pin Mechanism
  5. 02:26Colt Safety Pin Vulnerability
  6. 03:04Remington Safety Notch Mechanism & Vulnerability
  7. 03:57Concluding Safety Advice
  8. 04:30Outro and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How do safety pins work on Colt-style cap and ball revolvers?

On Colt-style revolvers, safety pins are small protrusions on the cylinder located between the nipples. The hammer has a corresponding notch that engages these pins when placed between chambers, locking the cylinder and preventing rotation.

What is the primary vulnerability of cap and ball revolver safety features?

The main vulnerability is that while the hammer rests safely between chambers, the adjacent nipples remain exposed. A significant drop or impact could potentially discharge the round in the exposed chamber, especially with Remington-style revolvers.

Why do some people recommend loading only five rounds in a six-shot cap and ball revolver?

Loading five rounds allows the hammer to rest on an empty chamber rather than a loaded one. This is a common safety practice, particularly when carrying the firearm, as it eliminates the risk of the hammer striking a percussion cap.

Are Remington-style revolver safety notches more or less secure than Colt-style safety pins?

Remington-style revolvers' safety notches tend to expose the nipples more than Colt-style revolvers' safety pins. While both offer a safety measure, the Remington's design is often considered slightly more vulnerable to accidental discharge from impact.

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