What's In A Wheelgun? - Wheelgun Wednesdays

Published on November 21, 2018
Duration: 13:35

This guide details how to inspect a revolver for proper cylinder lockup and timing, crucial for accuracy and reliability. It covers checking for side-to-side play, end shake, and visual cues of timing issues like forcing cone damage. The information is presented by Archie, a resident expert at Top Guns, emphasizing practical checks for potential buyers of used revolvers.

Quick Summary

Checking a revolver's cylinder lockup involves ensuring minimal side-to-side play when the hammer is cocked. End shake, the fore-and-aft cylinder movement, should also be minimal. Proper timing, indicated by precise cylinder alignment with the barrel and a lack of forcing cone damage, is crucial for accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Wheelgun Wednesdays
  2. 00:53Importance of Checking Revolver Condition
  3. 01:22Understanding Cylinder Lockup
  4. 02:30Checking for End Shake
  5. 03:14Assessing Revolver Timing
  6. 04:04Inspecting the Forcing Cone
  7. 04:57Action vs. Double Action Explained
  8. 05:33Advantages of Revolvers

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you check cylinder lockup on a revolver?

To check cylinder lockup, ensure the revolver is unloaded. Cock the hammer, then gently try to move the cylinder side-to-side. There should be minimal to no play. When the trigger is pulled with the hammer cocked, the cylinder should remain firmly locked in place.

What is end shake in a revolver and why is it important?

End shake is the back-and-forth movement of the cylinder within the revolver frame. A small amount, a few thousandths of an inch, is acceptable and helps guide the bullet. Excessive end shake can cause bullet shaving and negatively impact accuracy.

How can you tell if a revolver is out of time?

Signs a revolver might be out of time include visible damage to the forcing cone, such as hairline cracks or peening. Proper timing means the cylinder aligns perfectly with the barrel when the hammer is cocked and the cylinder locks into place.

What are the advantages of revolvers over semi-automatic pistols?

Revolvers are generally considered extremely safe and easy to operate, with fewer malfunctions. Their simplicity, dependability, and consistent trigger pull weight (especially in single-action mode) make them reliable performers even in adverse conditions.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Top Guns

View all →