WrongHanded
Member
- Joined
- Jul 6, 2017
- Messages
- 4,771
I don't want to get into a semi-auto vs SA revolver, or DA vs SA revolver debate. Both are obviously faster for reloading, and there is no doubt about that. But there are still some of us who carry SA revolvers - particularly in the field; for hiking, camping, etc - and I'd like to share thoughts on it with anyone who's interested.
It seems unlikely during a violent confrontation with either man or beast, that a reload is going to be practical, at least without retreat and cover or concealment (and yes, I mean hiding). But even if the threat is down, even out, in a place far from a rapid LE response, I think we'd all like to reload our firearms quickly and efficiently, if possible.
Though the concept of a free spin pawl is new to me, it seems a good addition to those SA sixguns that will accept it. It allows the user to remove an empty, load a new cartridge, and spin that chamber back towards the barrel. Because it can do this, it seems more likely to me that no matter how many fresh rounds I get into the gun, I can make them available more surely and more quickly. This is because at any time in the reloading process, the cylinder can be rotated two (actually two and a half) chambers back and the gate close. This now means the last round loaded, and any and all subsequent rounds, are lined up in order, to be fired. But it is taking me a little work to get used to reloading one at a time, and in reverse.
Others have previously mentioned this: A speed strip (I like the tail cut off), can be quite effectly used with the magnum length cartridges (possibly shorter lengths too), to load the chambers. It also helps keep all 6 rounds together in hand. I like to do the first 3, then turn the strip (hence removing the tail) to do the last 3.
I suppose partial reloads could be made during a momentary break in a conflict, but this seems like a tricky proposition. And one that I'm confident I would fumble on. Perhaps others know more.
If you have any interest, jump on in and we'll talk about it.
It seems unlikely during a violent confrontation with either man or beast, that a reload is going to be practical, at least without retreat and cover or concealment (and yes, I mean hiding). But even if the threat is down, even out, in a place far from a rapid LE response, I think we'd all like to reload our firearms quickly and efficiently, if possible.
Though the concept of a free spin pawl is new to me, it seems a good addition to those SA sixguns that will accept it. It allows the user to remove an empty, load a new cartridge, and spin that chamber back towards the barrel. Because it can do this, it seems more likely to me that no matter how many fresh rounds I get into the gun, I can make them available more surely and more quickly. This is because at any time in the reloading process, the cylinder can be rotated two (actually two and a half) chambers back and the gate close. This now means the last round loaded, and any and all subsequent rounds, are lined up in order, to be fired. But it is taking me a little work to get used to reloading one at a time, and in reverse.
Others have previously mentioned this: A speed strip (I like the tail cut off), can be quite effectly used with the magnum length cartridges (possibly shorter lengths too), to load the chambers. It also helps keep all 6 rounds together in hand. I like to do the first 3, then turn the strip (hence removing the tail) to do the last 3.
I suppose partial reloads could be made during a momentary break in a conflict, but this seems like a tricky proposition. And one that I'm confident I would fumble on. Perhaps others know more.
If you have any interest, jump on in and we'll talk about it.
