How NOT To Carry a Colt Single Action Army

Published on November 21, 2018
Duration: 5:00

This video demonstrates the unsafe practice of carrying a Colt Single Action Army with a round under the hammer, explaining the mechanical risks. It then teaches the 'Cowboy Load' or 'John Wayne Load' technique for safely carrying five rounds by leaving one chamber empty under the hammer. Modern revolvers with transfer bars are contrasted with traditional designs.

Quick Summary

For traditional Colt Single Action Army revolvers, the safest carry method is the 'Cowboy Load': load one round, skip the next chamber, load four more, and rest the hammer on the empty chamber. This prevents accidental discharge, unlike carrying six rounds where the hammer rests on a primer.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Staged Negligent Discharge Demo
  2. 00:54The Danger of Six Rounds
  3. 01:26Mechanical Vulnerability Explained
  4. 02:31The Cowboy Load Technique
  5. 03:45Range Performance Demo
  6. 04:16Modern Exceptions & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to carry a Colt Single Action Army?

For traditional Colt Single Action Army revolvers without modern safety features, the safest method is the 'Cowboy Load'. This involves loading one round, skipping the next chamber, and loading four more, ensuring the hammer rests on an empty chamber.

Why is carrying six rounds in a Colt SAA unsafe?

Traditional Colt SAAs lack a transfer bar or hammer block. Carrying six rounds means the hammer rests directly on the primer of a live round, making it susceptible to accidental discharge from impact.

What is the 'Cowboy Load' or 'John Wayne Load'?

It's a safe carry method for traditional single-action revolvers. You load one round, skip the next chamber, load the remaining four, then carefully lower the hammer onto the empty chamber.

Do modern revolvers have different safety features?

Yes, many modern revolvers, like the Ruger Vaquero, include transfer bars. This safety mechanism prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is pulled, allowing safe carry of a full cylinder.

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