The Cowboy Load, Part 2: Cap & Ball Revolvers

Published on December 30, 2017
Duration: 3:41

This guide details the 'Cowboy Load' technique for cap and ball revolvers, emphasizing safety during carry. By loading five chambers and leaving one empty, the hammer can rest on the empty chamber, protecting the percussion caps from accidental ignition, especially when carried in a holster. This method is presented as a prudent safety measure for black powder firearms.

Quick Summary

The 'Cowboy Load' for cap and ball revolvers involves loading five chambers and leaving one empty. This ensures the hammer rests on an empty chamber, protecting percussion caps from accidental discharge, a crucial safety measure when carrying the firearm, especially in a holster.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to Cowboy Load
  2. 00:21How to Perform the Cowboy Load
  3. 01:14Cowboy Load Necessity on Cap & Ball
  4. 01:44Cylinder Examination: Hammer Between Chambers
  5. 02:45Eliminating Risk with Cowboy Load
  6. 03:01Carrying Percussion Revolvers Safely
  7. 03:22Conclusion and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Cowboy Load' for cap and ball revolvers?

The 'Cowboy Load' is a safety technique for cap and ball revolvers where one chamber is intentionally left empty. This allows the hammer to rest on the empty chamber, preventing the firing pin from striking a percussion cap and reducing the risk of accidental discharge, especially when carried.

Why is the Cowboy Load recommended for cap and ball revolvers?

It's recommended because when the hammer rests between chambers on a cap and ball revolver, the percussion caps can become exposed and vulnerable to impact. The Cowboy Load ensures the hammer rests on an empty chamber, offering a safer carry method by protecting the caps.

How do you perform the Cowboy Load on a cap and ball revolver?

To perform the Cowboy Load, open the loading gate, bring the hammer to half-cock, load one chamber, skip the next, load the remaining four, close the gate, and then pull the hammer back so it rests on the empty chamber.

Is the Cowboy Load necessary for all cap and ball revolver use?

The Cowboy Load is primarily a safety measure for carrying a cap and ball revolver, especially in a holster where it might be bumped. For casual range use where the firearm isn't being carried, loading all chambers is generally acceptable.

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