Watch this BEFORE You Buy a Revolver - The Ultimate Inspection Checklist

Published on September 28, 2025
Duration: 20:01

Brett from Nightwood Guns provides a comprehensive checklist for inspecting revolvers before purchase, addressing both new firearms with quality control issues and used models. Key checks include barrel alignment, side plate screw condition, timing (single and double action), cylinder lockup, end shake, trigger function, and potential structural issues like cracks or bulges. The guide emphasizes looking for signs of internal tampering and cosmetic flaws that can indicate abuse or poor manufacturing.

Quick Summary

When buying a revolver, inspect for proper barrel alignment, check side plate screws for marring (indicating internal tampering), and test timing by slowly cocking the hammer to ensure the cylinder stop pin drops into a notch. Also, assess cylinder lockup and end shake for excessive play, and examine frames and barrels for cracks or bulges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Why Inspect
  2. 01:00Barrel Alignment & Crush Fit
  3. 01:39Side Plate Screw Inspection
  4. 02:16Checking Revolver Timing (Single & Double Action)
  5. 05:04Hammer Push Test
  6. 05:27Cylinder Lockup & End Shake
  7. 06:31Trigger Reset & Feel
  8. 07:27Bent Ejector Rod Check
  9. 07:54Cylinder Gap Evaluation
  10. 09:05Sticky Cylinders
  11. 09:43Frame Cracks & Forcing Cone Issues
  12. 11:07Wood Grip Inspection
  13. 11:17Cosmetic Blemishes & Wear
  14. 12:17Barrel Crown & Sights
  15. 13:01Tritium Night Sight Check
  16. 13:17Rust & Pitting Inspection
  17. 14:35Barrel Interior & Rifling
  18. 15:08Barrel Bulge Check
  19. 15:29Cylinder Notch Peening
  20. 15:53Cylinder Face Wear
  21. 16:24Firing Pin & Transfer Bar Check
  22. 17:08Hand Inspection
  23. 18:01Internal Issues & Hammer Spring
  24. 18:53Post-Purchase Testing
  25. 19:11Conclusion & Final Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key signs of a revolver with poor timing?

Poor revolver timing is indicated when the cylinder stop pin does not drop into a cylinder notch just before the hammer fully cocks in single-action, or when the cylinder doesn't align properly with the barrel during the trigger pull in double-action. This can affect accuracy and reliability.

How can I check for cylinder lockup and end shake on a revolver?

To check cylinder lockup and end shake, hold the trigger to the rear and wiggle the cylinder side-to-side and forward-and-back. Minimal movement is acceptable; excessive clunking or significant forward/backward play (end shake) indicates wear and potential issues.

What should I look for regarding cracks on a revolver frame?

When inspecting revolvers, especially those with alloy or aluminum frames, check carefully for cracks, particularly in the area underneath the barrel. Even steel frames should be examined for any obvious cracks, as these are serious structural defects.

How do I inspect the forcing cone on an older K-frame revolver?

For older K-frame revolvers like the Model 19 or 66, inspect the bottom of the forcing cone for cracks. This is a common failure point caused by excessive use of magnum ammunition and is a critical check for these models.

What is considered a critical flaw when buying a used revolver?

Critical flaws include a cracked forcing cone, bulged barrel, severely marred side plate screws (indicating tampering), excessive cylinder end shake, and any obvious cracks in the frame. These issues can compromise safety and functionality.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Nightwood Guns

View all →