Demonstrating That Alec Baldwin is a Big Fat Liar Cat!

Published on December 7, 2021
Duration: 11:10

This video explains the mechanics of a single-action revolver's hammer and sear, demonstrating why Alec Baldwin's claim of the hammer slipping and firing the gun without pulling the trigger is highly improbable. The instructor details the function of the safety notch and firing position on the hammer, contrasting it with the operation of a Ruger Vaquero which lacks a safety notch due to its transfer bar system. The analysis concludes that a firearm defect would likely have been disclosed by authorities if it were the cause of the incident.

Quick Summary

A single-action revolver's hammer has a safety notch that securely catches the sear, preventing accidental firing. If the hammer slips from this position, it will not fire. For the gun to discharge, the hammer must be fully cocked to the firing position, and the trigger must be pulled, engaging the sear with a shallow ledge.

Chapters

  1. 00:18Introduction: Alec Baldwin's Claim
  2. 01:30The 'Hammer Slipped' Theory Explained
  3. 01:50Hammer Notches and Sear Illustration
  4. 02:35Demonstrating the Safety Notch
  5. 03:33The Firing Position Explained
  6. 03:49Hammer Release from Safety Notch
  7. 04:35Ruger Vaquero vs. Single-Action Army
  8. 05:00Vaquero Mechanics: No Safety Notch
  9. 05:37Vaquero Transfer Bar System
  10. 06:53Possible Defect Scenario: Broken Sear
  11. 07:28Why a Defect Would Be Known
  12. 08:43Conclusion: The Story is Unlikely
  13. 09:02Glock 17 Giveaway Announcement

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the safety notch on a single-action revolver prevent accidental firing?

The safety notch is a deep groove on the hammer that securely catches the sear. This engagement prevents the hammer from moving forward and striking the firing pin, even if the trigger is accidentally bumped. The gun can only fire when the hammer is cocked to the firing position and the trigger is pulled.

Can a single-action revolver fire if the hammer is only partially cocked and slips?

Typically, no. If the hammer is pulled back to the safety notch and then released or slips, it will engage that deep notch, preventing firing. For the gun to fire, the hammer must be fully cocked to the firing position, which is a distinct ledge, and the trigger must be pulled.

What is the difference between a traditional Single-Action Army and a Ruger Vaquero regarding safety features?

Traditional Single-Action Armies have a safety notch on the hammer. Ruger Vaqueros, however, do not have this notch; they rely on a transfer bar system. This means the Vaquero's cylinder can be loaded with the hammer forward, and it won't fire unless the trigger is pulled, engaging the transfer bar.

What would indicate a firearm defect caused an accidental discharge like the one claimed by Alec Baldwin?

A significant defect, such as a broken sear or worn hammer notches, would prevent the hammer from catching in any safety or firing position. Such a defect would be readily apparent to firearms experts and would likely have been disclosed by authorities or the defense if it were the cause.

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