NEVER DO THIS....Revolver Edition

Proper revolver handling is crucial to prevent premature wear. Avoid pushing the cylinder before the latch, open it from the top to prevent cylinder stop damage, and never 'flip' the cylinder shut, especially with heavy loads like .45 ACP, to avoid mechanical failure. For modern revolvers, use snap caps or a patch when dry firing to protect the frame-mounted firing pin.

Quick Summary

To properly handle a revolver and prevent wear, always disengage the thumb latch before opening the cylinder and open it from the top. Avoid flipping the cylinder shut, especially with heavy loads. For dry firing modern S&W revolvers, use snap caps or a patch to protect the frame-mounted firing pin.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Revolver Care
  2. 00:35How to Properly Open Revolver Cylinder
  3. 01:25Cylinder Rotation & Stop Damage
  4. 02:28Safe Revolver Cylinder Closing
  5. 05:01Dry Firing Modern Revolvers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to open a revolver cylinder to prevent damage?

To prevent damage, never push on the cylinder before engaging the thumb latch. Always open the cylinder from the top. Pushing from the bottom can cause the cylinder stop to burr the notches, and pushing before the latch can cause the center pin to swipe the frame.

Why should you avoid flipping a revolver cylinder shut?

Flipping the cylinder shut, especially with heavy ammunition like .45 ACP, can lead to mechanical failure over time. The rotational inertia causes the cylinder stop to slam forcefully into the notches, creating excessive wear and potential damage.

How should you dry fire a modern Smith & Wesson revolver?

For modern Smith & Wesson revolvers featuring a frame-mounted firing pin, it's recommended to use snap caps or place a cleaning patch between the hammer and frame. This cushions the blow and prevents damage to the firing pin during dry fire practice.

What common mistake damages a revolver's cylinder stop?

Opening the revolver cylinder from the bottom instead of the top is a common mistake that can damage the cylinder stop. This improper rotation causes the stop to burr the shallow side of the cylinder notches, affecting its function and potentially the cylinder's alignment.

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