Revolvers: Old-School Firepower
Revolvers are like the classic cars of the gun world; simple and effective. At Intuitive Self Protection (ISP), we train shooters of all levels, and revolvers are often a hot topic. Firearms enthusiasts appreciate revolvers as a reliable backup, proving that these classics still have a solid role in modern self-defense.
History of Revolvers
A Colt 1849 Revolver
Revolvers date back to the early 1800s when Samuel Colt patented his design. These guns were revolutionary because they introduced the idea of a rotating cylinder, which allowed multiple rounds to be fired before reloading. Prior to that, firearms were mostly single-shot and a pain to reload. Revolvers set the stage for modern firearms, that still holds appeal even in a world dominated by semi-automatics.
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Why Choose a Revolver?
Smith & Wesson revolver; chambered in .38 Special
Simplicity: Revolvers are easy to operate. There’s no magazine to load, no slide to rack; just point and shoot.
Reliability: They rarely malfunction. No worries about failure to feed or eject; revolvers fire when you need them to.
Durability: Revolvers can handle years of use and still perform. They’re great for shooters who want a gun that will last a lifetime.
Versatility: Revolvers are chambered in a wide range of calibers, from .22 for beginners to .357 Magnum for stopping power.
Revolver vs.
Semi-automatic
Revolvers and semiautomatics are both types of pistols, but they differ in how they store and fire ammo. Revolvers use a rotating cylinder to hold cartridges, while semiautomatics use a magazine to feed rounds into the chamber.
Founding ISP Lead Instructor, Steve Johnson, teaches this course with his semi-automatic pistol.
Capacity: Revolvers typically hold 5-6 rounds. Semiautomatics often carry 10-15 or more.
Reloading: Reloading a revolver can take longer, but speed loaders help. Semiautomatics are quicker to reload thanks to their magazines and there are also speed loaders available.
Ease of Use: Revolvers are simple and user-friendly, ideal for those who prefer minimal mechanics.
Maintenance: Semiautomatics need regular cleaning and upkeep, while revolvers require less frequent maintenance.
Summary
Revolvers have stood the test of time for a reason. They’re reliable, durable, and easy to use, making them a great choice for personal defense or as a backup firearm.
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About The Author
Hank Hayes is a Combat Arts Hall of Famer and inventor of the No Lie Blade. He is the founder and CEO of both Intuitive Self Protection and NLB Tactical and creator of the ISP/NLB viscous fighting system. Since 1998, he has trained well over 30,000 Military and Law Enforcement personnel via Government contract mainly at the elite special teams level and continues to train both civilians and MIL/LE how to come home safe.