What are Moon Clips for Revolvers?
When it comes to revolvers, many enthusiasts are familiar with the terms "moon clips" and "star clips," but few understand their true purpose and benefits. In this article, we will explore what moon clips are, their history, and why they are an essential tool for revolver enthusiasts.
Contents
What are Moon Clips?
A Definition
A moon clip is a semi-circular clip made of metal, rubber, or other materials, designed to hold a few revolver cartridges in a circle, allowing for quick reloading. Moon clips are designed to work with revolvers that have a removable cylinder, such as the famous Smith & Wesson Hand Ejector revolver. They are typically made to accommodate specific calibers and revolver models.
How Do Moon Clips Work?
Moon clips function by wrapping around the edge of the revolver cylinder and holding the cartridges in place. When a cartridge is fired, the spent shell is ejected, and a new cartridge is loaded from the clip. This process allows for rapid reloading and increased shooting speed. The advantages of using moon clips include:
- Faster reloading times
- Reduced reload fatigue
- Increased shooting speed
- Reduced cartridge loss during loading
- Compatibility with high-volume shooting
History of Moon Clips
Moon clips have a long and fascinating history dating back to the early 20th century. In 1905, Frank C. Moon, an engineer from St. Louis, Missouri, patented the concept of a "recoil-operated cartridge clip." Moon’s design featured a clip that was fixed to the revolver’s frame, but it was later adapted to become a removable semi-circular clip. Throughout the mid-20th century, moon clips became popular among competitive shooters, hunters, and military forces, particularly during World War II.
Moon Clip Types and Specifications
Moon clips come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for specific revolver models and calibers. Here is a list of common moon clip types:
• Standard Moon Clips: Designed for standard calibers like.38 Special,.357 Magnum, and.44 Magnum
• Wide Moon Clips: Designed for wider cylinders and calibers like.45 Colt,.454 Casull, and.500 S&W
• Specialty Moon Clips: Designed for specialized calibers like 9mm,.380 ACP, and.45 ACP
When choosing a moon clip, consider the following specifications:
- Caliber compatibility: Ensure the clip is designed for your specific revolver caliber
- Size and shape: Match the clip to your revolver cylinder’s dimensions
- Material: Choose clips made from durable materials like brass, stainless steel, or nylon
- Manufacturers: Research reputable brands like Safariland, Taylor’s, and Metalform
Benefits of Using Moon Clips
Here are the top benefits of using moon clips for revolvers:
- Faster reloads: Moon clips eliminate the need to individually reload each chamber, reducing overall reload time
- Increased shooting speed: Moon clips allow for rapid and efficient reloading, giving shooters a competitive edge
- Reduced fatigue: Moon clips reduce the physical demands of reloading, conserving energy and reducing reloading time
- Consistency: Moon clips maintain a consistent loading procedure, ensuring uniform cartridge spacing and reduced risk of jamming
- Adaptability: Moon clips work with various revolver models, calibers, and cartridges
Moon Clip Maintenance and Safety Considerations
To ensure optimal performance and safety, maintain your moon clips with regular cleaning and lubrication. Additionally, observe the following safety guidelines:
- Handle moon clips carefully: Avoid accidental finger contact with the cartridges within the clip
- Check the clip’s tightness: Ensure the clip is securely attached to the revolver cylinder to prevent ejection during firing
- Use the correct reload technique: Follow proper loading procedures to avoid accidental misloading or cartridge loss
- Store moon clips safely: Keep clips separated from ammunition and away from ignition sources
Conclusion
In conclusion, moon clips for revolvers are a must-have accessory for competitive shooters, hunters, and serious revolver enthusiasts. With their history dating back to the early 20th century, moon clips have become an integral part of the revolver reloading process. By choosing the right moon clip, following proper maintenance and safety guidelines, and mastering loading techniques, revolver owners can maximize their shooting experience. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced shooter, moon clips are an investment worth considering for your next shooting adventure.
Summary Table:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Semi-circular clip holding revolver cartridges in a circle |
| Advantages | Faster reloading times, reduced reload fatigue, increased shooting speed |
| History | Patented in 1905 by Frank C. Moon |
| Types | Standard, wide, and specialty clips for specific revolver models and calibers |
| Specifications | Caliber compatibility, size, shape, material, and manufacturer |
| Benefits | Faster reloads, increased shooting speed, reduced fatigue, consistency, and adaptability |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning and lubrication |
| Safety Guidelines | Handle with care, check tightness, proper loading technique, and store safely |
Important Resources:
- Safariland: A leading manufacturer of moon clips and reloading equipment
- Taylor’s: A well-known supplier of moon clips and reloading accessories
- Metalform: A top-quality manufacturer of moon clips and reloading equipment
