Single Action Revolvers: Cap & Ball vs. Metallic Cartridge

Published on March 28, 2026
Duration: 9:56

This video provides a detailed comparison between cap and ball revolvers and metallic cartridge revolvers, focusing on their loading mechanisms and operational differences. It explains the step-by-step process for loading a cap and ball revolver, highlighting the use of separate components like powder, balls, and percussion caps. The presenter, Dustin from Guns of the West, also discusses the convenience and modern advantages of metallic cartridge revolvers, including their compatibility with smokeless powder and the option of conversion cylinders for older cap and ball models. He concludes that neither type is inherently more entry-level, offering different paths for new shooters.

Quick Summary

Cap and ball revolvers require manual loading of powder, balls, and percussion caps, offering granular control but demanding more time. Metallic cartridge revolvers use pre-made cartridges loaded via a gate for superior speed and convenience. It's dangerous to use smokeless powder in cap and ball firearms; they require black powder or substitutes.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Cap & Ball vs. Cartridge Revolvers
  2. 00:28Patience for New Shooters
  3. 01:27How a Cap and Ball Revolver Loads
  4. 03:58Paper Cartridges for Cap & Ball
  5. 05:19How a Metallic Cartridge Revolver Loads
  6. 07:06Cap & Ball to Cartridge Conversion Cylinders
  7. 07:39Which Revolver Should a New Shooter Start With?
  8. 08:28Dustin's Personal Preference: Cap & Ball
  9. 09:09Conclusion & Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference in loading between cap and ball and metallic cartridge revolvers?

Cap and ball revolvers are loaded manually with separate components like powder, lead balls, and percussion caps for each chamber. Metallic cartridge revolvers are loaded with pre-made cartridges inserted through a loading gate, making them significantly faster and more convenient.

Can you use smokeless powder in a cap and ball revolver?

No, it is extremely dangerous to use smokeless powder in a cap and ball revolver. These firearms are designed only for black powder or approved black powder substitutes like Pyrodex or Triple Seven.

Is there a way to convert a cap and ball revolver to shoot metallic cartridges?

Yes, many cap and ball revolvers can be fitted with conversion cylinders. These cylinders are designed to accept metallic cartridges, allowing the firearm to shoot modern ammunition, including smokeless powder rounds, while retaining its original aesthetics.

Which type of single action revolver is better for a new shooter to start with?

According to the instructor, neither type is inherently more entry-level than the other. Cap and ball and metallic cartridge revolvers represent different paths, and new shooters can choose based on their interest in historical loading processes or modern convenience.

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