Long term storage of loaded revolver

[SomebodyMakeRiderRepro]

Ok, I've tested this scientifically.

The results were mixed (in my opinion).

While the gun fired everytime, the velocities were all over the place, starting with a pathetic 647 fps (180 gr projectile - 167 ft. lbf) and ending with a respectable 987 fps ( 389 ft. lbf).
The load was exactly measured on a scale - 38 grains in each chamber. Chambers were degreased with acetone, dried, loaded and then sealed with crisco from the front, and beeswax from the rear (nipples). The gun was kept for ca ~6 months under room conditions of a Montana house.

Obviously even a beeswax coating is far from the seal you get with a self-contained metallic cartridge. Consistency being the main issue as is evidenced by different velocities in each chamber which I believe is due to different levels of moisture penetrating the seal and spoiling powder. Oil residue in chamber(s) is possible but highly unlikely as I did a thorough degreasing with acetone. On a side note, beeswax sealing of the kind I use is enough to make this gun fire underwater.

See for yourself:

 

[damoc]

I am experimenting with keeping a C&B revolver loaded. If I load it with real BP without lube, I get chain fires. If I store it loaded with lube ( I have tried a wonder wad under the ball and alternatively, bore butter on top of the ball), the lube seeps into the powder. I notice significantly less recoil.

Has anyone had any luck storing a loaded revolver and not experienced a loss in effectiveness?

I make a good lube from about 50 50 beeswax and lard never had any problems with long term storage. You mentioned real BP not pyrodex but I have had similar problems with pyrodex being exposed to atmosphere.

 

[damoc]

What would a Lawman a range rider an out law or a homesteader done in the 1850’s and 60’s.

I reckon they would have shot more often kind of like rotating the stored preps.

 

[hawg]

What would a Lawman a range rider an out law or a homesteader done in the 1850’s and 60’s.

Probably nothing. Just powder and ball. General Lee's 51 navy was fired seven years after his death and all six chambers fired. It was noted there was a black waxy substance covering the balls. I'm thinking probably beeswax for waterproofing since it was out in all kinds of weather.

 

[dickydalton]

I just fired this 1858, the one on the left, and extra cylinder last week. It was loaded in 2018 before we moved out here. All 12 shots were full power and I hit the target. (2 gallon R-34 can at 25 yards).
35 grains of Swiss 3F Gatfoe #1 lubed wad and 454 ball.

Remmy's And A Knife

• dickydalton
• Sep 22, 2019