The invention of the revolver marked a significant advancement in weaponry, revolutionizing the way firearms operated. In this article, we delve into the mechanical intricacies behind the operation of revolvers and pistols, shedding light on their historical evolution and key components.
The Birth of the Revolver
The basic principle is straightforward: when the trigger is pulled, a system of levers and springs comes into play, causing the bullet to explode. Propelled by this explosion, the bullet exits the barrel at nearly 700 km/h, inflicting substantial damage on the target. This innovation can be seen as an early form of miniaturization, rooted in the concept of cannons.
Samuel Colt’s Revolution
In 1835, the 21-year-old American Samuel Colt patented a groundbreaking design featuring a drum—a cylindrical piece that stores bullets and rotates with each shot. This innovation eliminated the need to reload powder and metal bullets after each discharge, giving birth to the modern revolver.
Evolution into Pistols
By the end of the 19th century, advancements led to the creation of more practical models—the pistols. These firearms, firing from seven to twenty shots without reloading, employed a clip system for bullet storage. This transition marked a significant leap in accuracy and efficiency.
The Mechanics of Revolvers
Step-by-Step Process
- Pulling the Trigger
- Initiates the firing sequence.
- Lever Activation
- Two levers are activated:
- The first, at the back, pushes the hammer of the revolver backward.
- The second, at the top, rotates the drum, positioning a bullet for firing.
- Spring Action
- A spring at the bottom of the mechanism propels the hammer forward with significant force towards the drum.
- Impact and Explosion
- The pointed part of the hammer strikes a piece called the needle, which, in turn, impacts the base of the bullet. This collision triggers the gunpowder explosion.
- Bullet Acceleration
- The gas from the gunpowder explosion continues to propel the bullet, increasing its speed. Internal grooves induce a spinning motion, reducing air resistance and further enhancing velocity.
- Effectiveness
- A .38 revolver can fire bullets at 650 km/h, causing substantial damage to tissues and potentially breaking bones. The severity of injuries depends on factors like bullet caliber and shot velocity.
Notable Firearm Models
Glock 380 (Pistol)
- Manufacturer: Glock
- Launched in: 1979
- Description: The compact Glock 380, a variant of the .38 caliber, is known for its square shape, allowing for easy concealment. Weighing in at 680 grams, it’s a lightweight yet potent pistol.
Magnum 44 (Revolver)
- Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
- Released in: 1956
- Description: Immortalized in Hollywood, the Magnum 44 is a heavy revolver with an extended barrel for increased accuracy and power.
9 MM (Pistol)
- Manufacturer: John Browning
- Launched in: 1923
- Description: Employed by the Nazis in World War II, this pistol, a variation of the .38 caliber, is favored by law enforcement. Despite its 900-gram weight, its powerful shot can cause significant damage.
Handgun 450 (Revolver)
- Manufacturer: Colt
- Released in: 1873
- Description: This 0.45-inch caliber revolver was designed for the US government’s invasion of the Philippines in the late 19th century.
Caliber 38 (Revolver)
- Manufacturer: Colt
- Released in: 1873
- Description: Also known as «three-oitão,» the .38 caliber revolver, produced by various companies, is a popular choice in Brazil.
Anatomy of a Projectile
- Capsule: Contains the gunpowder that explodes.
- Metal Bullet: Fired by the revolver.
- Gunpowder: Propellant for the shot.
- Detonator: Struck by the needle to ignite the gunpowder.
- Base: Provides information on the manufacturer and caliber.