When was the double action revolver invented?

When was the Double Action Revolver Invented?

The double action revolver has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. With its unique mechanism of simultaneously cocking and firing, it has become a staple of firearms design. In this article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of the double action revolver and answer the question: when was it invented?

Early Beginnings

The concept of the double action revolver can be traced back to the late 1830s when French inventor Casimir Lefaucheux patented the first self-cocking revolver. However, Lefaucheux’s design was not a true double action revolver, as it still required the user to manually cock the hammer.

The First True Double Action Revolver

1855: The Hamilton Patent

The first true double action revolver was invented by British gunsmith J. E. Hamilton in 1855. Hamilton’s design combined the principles of the pinfire cartridge with a patented mechanism that allowed the trigger to both cock and release the hammer simultaneously. This innovation enabled the user to fire the revolver without manual cocking, making it a more practical and easier-to-use weapon.

Key Features of Hamilton’s Design

• Mainspring: A longer, more powerful mainspring was used to generate sufficient energy to cock the hammer and fire the cartridge.

• Trigger Mechanism: The trigger mechanism included a sear that linked the trigger to the hammer, allowing the hammer to be released simultaneously with the trigger pull.

• Cartridge: The patent used the pinfire cartridge, which had a large primer and a separate casing for the propellant charge.

The Advent of the Centerfire Cartridge

1860s: The Development of the Centerfire Cartridge

The introduction of the centerfire cartridge by French inventor Louis-Nicolas Flobert in the 1860s revolutionized firearms design. The centerfire cartridge consisted of a single piece of brass or copper containing a propellant charge, bullet, and primer. This innovation made the double action revolver even more reliable and practical.

Evolution of the Double Action Revolver

From the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, the double action revolver underwent several significant changes and improvements.

• 1870s: The introduction of the Colt Single Action Army, which became a popular military and civilian sidearm, further popularized the concept of the double action revolver.

• 1880s: The development of the Webley break-top revolver, which combined the double action mechanism with a break-top design for easy loading and unloading.

• Early 20th century: The introduction of the Colt Army Special, which featured an improved trigger mechanism and frame design.

Modern Applications

Today, the double action revolver remains a staple of firearms design, used in various applications, including:

• Law Enforcement: Many law enforcement agencies still use double action revolvers as a reliable and effective sidearm.

• Hunting: The double action revolver is ideal for hunting, as its smooth trigger pull and minimal recoil make it easier to control.

• Colt Revolvers: Some modern Colt revolvers still feature the double action mechanism, such as the Cobra and the Detective Special.

Conclusion

The double action revolver has come a long way since its inception in the mid-19th century. From Hamilton’s 1855 patent to the development of the centerfire cartridge and the various improvements in design, the double action revolver has become a widely used and respected firearm.

Timeline of the Evolution of the Double Action Revolver

In summary, the double action revolver was invented by J. E. Hamilton in 1855, with its evolution influenced by the introduction of the centerfire cartridge and various design improvements over the years.