Power of the Wedge

[Norton Commando]

I often wondered about the force being generated between the barrel and frame and arbor by that goofy "wedge" on my Colt Army pistol. So I decided to take a crack at calculating an estimate of it. I guessed at the wedge angle, 1.5 degrees per side, and added 1-degree for friction. Then, assuming a 10-lb push with my thumb, I calculated a force of ~115 lbs! Albeit this is an estimated order-of-magnitude force, but it's still pretty impressive for thumb pressure.

 

[72coupe]

I was able to snap the end off the arbor of my 2nd model dragoon repro back in 1968 with the wedge using a hammer.

 

[col.lemat]

I did the same thing with a walker on the first shot, also in 68

 

[junkman_01]

You two shouldn't be allowed near a hammer!

 

[72coupe]

Junkman I am older and hopefully wiser and more talented with a hammer now.