I have had interesting discussions with some 'experts' on the forum regarding the easiest way to measure pressures in a black powder revolver during a shoot... I'm sorry to have to share with you that it is quite hard to do without destroying a revolver (to insert sensors).
For instance, I contacted RSI about the "Pressure traceII" solution (which is nice for round barrels with centered chambers), and here is the answer:
"
You are correct to assume pressures are rarely if ever
measured directly from a revolver cylinder.
Since the barrel/cylinder gap*varies with wear, production*
and make*of gun; ammo pressure is always measured in a solid*
barrel. *
The shape of the cylinder*does not produce even radial*
expansion that can be translated*to pressure.
Many cylinders are forged and will have unknown*properties
and it is not practical to operate*a revolver with wires, etc.*
because the gage will not clear*the back strap of the frame.
Most would use a platform like the Thompson Center to
measure pressure. *As long as the chambers are similar,
results in a revolver should be lower due to the gap.
As long as the barrel is of known properties (Chrome Moly
4041) and round, actual pressures can be measured. The barrel*
dimensions must be correct and the strain gage must
be properly glued, etc.
Another option is to build a test bed for different
barrels with a simple firing mechanism.
"
Then I will have to contact a proofhouse.
For instance, I contacted RSI about the "Pressure traceII" solution (which is nice for round barrels with centered chambers), and here is the answer:
"
You are correct to assume pressures are rarely if ever
measured directly from a revolver cylinder.
Since the barrel/cylinder gap*varies with wear, production*
and make*of gun; ammo pressure is always measured in a solid*
barrel. *
The shape of the cylinder*does not produce even radial*
expansion that can be translated*to pressure.
Many cylinders are forged and will have unknown*properties
and it is not practical to operate*a revolver with wires, etc.*
because the gage will not clear*the back strap of the frame.
Most would use a platform like the Thompson Center to
measure pressure. *As long as the chambers are similar,
results in a revolver should be lower due to the gap.
As long as the barrel is of known properties (Chrome Moly
4041) and round, actual pressures can be measured. The barrel*
dimensions must be correct and the strain gage must
be properly glued, etc.
Another option is to build a test bed for different
barrels with a simple firing mechanism.
"
Then I will have to contact a proofhouse.
