Do Revolvers Really Blast Shrapnel Out the Side?

Published on November 26, 2025
Duration: 2:21

CajunBoyJake, demonstrating high authority and an objective tone, experimentally tests the common myth of revolvers blasting shrapnel from the cylinder gap. The guide details a methodical approach using various revolvers and ammunition types, including .22 Magnum, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum rounds, to determine if fragments escape. The testing concluded that only unburnt powder residue was observed, not dangerous shrapnel.

Quick Summary

Firearms instructor CajunBoyJake experimentally tested the myth of revolvers blasting shrapnel from the cylinder gap. Using .22 Mag, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum firearms with various ammunition, tests showed only unburnt gunpowder residue, not dangerous fragments, on adjacent paper targets.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cylinder Gap Shrapnel Theory
  2. 00:20Experimental Setup for Testing
  3. 00:33Testing .22 Magnum Jacketed Rounds
  4. 00:51Testing .38 Special Lead and Wad Cutters
  5. 01:38Testing .357 Magnum Bear Loads
  6. 02:15Conclusion on Cylinder Gap Shrapnel

Frequently Asked Questions

Can revolvers really blast shrapnel out the side from the cylinder gap?

According to experimental testing by CajunBoyJake, a firearms instructor, revolvers do not appear to blast dangerous shrapnel from the cylinder gap. Tests using .22 Magnum, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum ammunition showed only unburnt gunpowder residue, not lead or jacket fragments.

What is the purpose of the cylinder gap on a revolver?

The cylinder gap on a revolver is a necessary space between the cylinder and the barrel, allowing the cylinder to rotate freely while firing. Hot gases escape through this gap, which is normal operation and not typically a source of dangerous shrapnel.

What types of ammunition were tested for cylinder gap shrapnel?

The testing included various ammunition types: Hornady 30 gr V-MAX jacketed bullets (.22 Mag), Black Hills 158 gr lead rounds and Sellier & Bellot 148 gr Wad Cutters (.38 Special), and HSM 180 gr 'Bear Load' lead rounds (.357 Mag).

How did CajunBoyJake test for cylinder gap shrapnel?

CajunBoyJake placed a white sheet of paper directly adjacent to the revolver's cylinder gap. After firing, the paper was examined for any fragments or damage that might indicate shrapnel escaping during discharge.

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