The Cowboy Load: How To Load A Single-Action Revolver

Published on September 5, 2017
Duration: 3:20

This guide details the 'Cowboy Load' technique for safely carrying a traditional single-action revolver, as demonstrated by firearms instructor Dustin Winegar. It explains the mechanical reasons for this method, emphasizing the danger of carrying six live rounds due to the hammer-mounted firing pin. The procedure involves loading one round, skipping a chamber, and loading the remaining four, ensuring the hammer rests on an empty chamber. This method is crucial for older revolver designs and clones.

Quick Summary

The 'Cowboy Load' is a critical safety technique for traditional single-action revolvers, ensuring safe carry by leaving one chamber empty under the hammer. This prevents accidental discharge common in older designs with hammer-mounted firing pins. The procedure involves loading one round, skipping a chamber, and loading the remaining four.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Cowboy Load
  2. 00:34Mechanical Differences: Old vs. Modern
  3. 01:19Step-by-Step Loading Procedure
  4. 02:15Safety Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Cowboy Load' and why is it important for single-action revolvers?

The 'Cowboy Load' is a safety technique for traditional single-action revolvers where one chamber is left empty under the hammer. This is crucial because older designs have hammer-mounted firing pins, making them prone to accidental discharge if dropped or bumped with a live round under the hammer.

How do you perform the 'Cowboy Load' on a single-action revolver?

To perform the Cowboy Load, open the loading gate, set the hammer to half-cock, load one cartridge, skip the next chamber, and then load the remaining four. This ensures the hammer rests on an empty chamber when lowered.

Are all single-action revolvers unsafe to carry with a full cylinder?

No, modern single-action revolvers, such as the Ruger New Vaquero, often incorporate a transfer bar safety system. This system allows them to be safely carried with a full cylinder of six rounds, unlike older designs.

What safety demonstration was shown in the video regarding revolver safety?

The video demonstrated the danger by showing a blue mallet striking the hammer of a primed .45 Colt casing. Even a light tap was enough to ignite the primer when it was chambered, highlighting the risk of carrying a live round under the hammer.

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