What are Revolver Moon Clips?
Revolver moon clips are a innovative and popular shooting accessory for revolver owners, particularly for those who participate in revolver shooting sports or competitions. In this article, we will delve into the world of revolver moon clips and explore their benefits, how they work, and when to use them.
What is a Revolver Moon Clip?
A revolver moon clip is a semi-permanent holder for revolver ammunition, typically holding 6-8 cartridges. These clips are made of steel, aluminum, or synthetic materials and are specifically designed for use with revolver firearms. The moon clip is securely attached to the revolver and holds the ammunition in place, allowing the shooter to quickly reload without having to manually insert individual cartridges into the revolver cylinder.
Advantages of Revolver Moon Clips
There are several benefits to using revolver moon clips, including:
• Speed and convenience: Revolver moon clips allow for quick and easy reloads, saving time during competitions or defensive situations. With a standard revolver reload, you have to carefully insert individual cartridges into each cylinder, a process that can take precious seconds.
• Accurate alignment: The moon clip guides the ammunition into the correct position in the cylinder, ensuring proper alignment and consistent shooting results.
• Reduced powder residue and fouling: The revolver moon clip reduces the amount of powder residue and fouling on the revolver, making cleaning easier and maintaining the gun’s performance.
How do Revolver Moon Clips Work?**
Using a revolver moon clip is straightforward:
• **Attach the moon clip**: Attach the moon clip to the revolver by securing it to the cylinder or frame. This can usually be done by simply slipping the moon clip onto the revolver and securing it with a release mechanism.
• **Insert the ammunition**: Place 6-8 cartridges (depending on the moon clip design) onto the revolver moon clip.
• **Load the revolver**: Slowly and evenly push the moon clip onto the cylinder, allowing the cartridges to be seated in the cylinders.
• **Release the moon clip**: Remove the moon clip by depressing the release mechanism or twisting the clip off the revolver.
**Types of Revolver Moon Clips**
There are different types of moon clips, each designed for specific purposes or revolver models:
* **Standard moon clips**: These are the most common type and fit most popular revolver models, such as the S&W Model 10, Colt Python, and Ruger SP101.
* **Custom-made moon clips**: These are designed specifically for unique revolver models, like the Rossi 692 and the STI Law Enforcement.
* **Speed-load moon clips**: These clips are specifically designed for competitive shooting, allowing for lightning-fast reloads.
**Table 1: Types of Revolver Moon Clips**
| Type | Purpose | Common Revolver Models |
| — | — | — |
| Standard | Universal fit | S&W Model 10, Colt Python, Ruger SP101 |
| Custom-made | Unique designs for specific revolver models | Rossi 692, STI Law Enforcement |
| Speed-load | Designed for competitive shooting | Various models, including speed-load capable revolvers |
**When to Use Revolver Moon Clips**
Moon clips are beneficial in several situations:
• **Competition shooting**: Revolver moon clips can significantly increase your speed and accuracy in competitive shooting sports, such as IPSC, IDPA, and revolver-centric matches.
• **Concealed carry**: Carrying a moon clip-ed revolver can improve reliability and performance in defensive situations, providing a quicker reload and maintaining accuracy.
• **Camping and hunting**: If you use your revolver for outdoor activities, moon clips can be helpful in rugged environments where cleanliness and dryness may be compromised, reducing the likelihood of fouling or powder residue accumulation.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, revolver moon clips are an excellent accessory for revolver owners who want to improve their shooting performance and efficiency. Whether you participate in competitions or use your revolver for concealed carry or outdoor activities, moon clips can significantly benefit your experience. With the various types of moon clips available and their benefits listed above, it’s worth considering whether a moon clip is the right addition to your revolver arsenal.
