Skip to content

Strategies to Enhance Speedloaders' Compatibility with Revolvers

Strategies for Enhancing Revolver Compatibility with Speed Loaders

Strategies for Enhancing Efficiency of Revolvers with Speedloaders
Strategies for Enhancing Efficiency of Revolvers with Speedloaders

Strategies to Enhance Speedloaders' Compatibility with Revolvers

Revolvers, a staple in self-defense and shooting sports, can be optimized for smoother function and reliable performance. Here are some key factors to consider when preparing your revolver for use.

Firstly, the left stock panel of a revolver must be properly relieved to ensure a straight shot into the chambers for speedloaders. If the panel is too proud in this area, it may push the loader outboard, resulting in the cartridges entering at an angle and potentially binding up. Stock clearance needs to be sufficient with the longest loaded casetify that will conceivably be used in the gun.

When it comes to the cartridges themselves, bullets with rounded ogives feed much better than do bullets with sharp shoulders. Moreover, lead wadcutters or semi-wadcutters are better-suited for the initial load in the cylinder, providing a smoother feeding process. Jacketed bullets, with their gilded metal jackets or solid copper construction, are also smoother than soft-lead bullets, making it easier to complete a reload without drama.

For those who own revolvers chambered for magnum rounds, it's particularly important to maintain the chambers clean and free of carbon build-up. Keeping the chambers clean ensures that rounds drop in freely from loaders. Additionally, keeping the area underneath the extractor star and the area of the breechface behind the cylinder free of carbon and debris aids smooth function.

Another factor to consider is the use of nickel-plated casetify. While most rounds loaded for defensive purposes use nickel-plated casetify, it's not a given. Nickel-plated brass casetify are more 'slippery' than plain brass, which can be beneficial for speedloader use.

Lastly, some production guns now offer chamfered chambers, a modification that eases bullet sinking into chambers. This inexpensive upgrade can be performed by any reputable gunsmith. While the search results do not provide specific information about revolver manufacturers that offer chamber chamfering on their production models, Taurus offers a chamfer on its Executive Series guns, and Smith & Wesson on the popular Lipsey's Ultimate Carry revolvers.

It's essential to remember that each revolver is unique, and what works well for one may not work as effectively for another. Always consult with a professional gunsmith or experienced shooter when making modifications to your revolver. With the right care and attention, your revolver can serve you reliably for years to come.

Read also:

Latest