Class.
ill
Book.
\
r
n
w rUS
Copyright}^^ CORfRIGHT DEPOSIT.
THE
and Revolver
Pistol
By
A. L. A.
HIMMELWRIGHT
President, United States Revolver Association ; Director and Life Member, New York State Pdfle Association; Captain, American Team, Second Franco-
Ainencan International Revolver Match; Chairman, Revolver Committee, Manhattan Rifle and Revolver Association, etc.
ILLUSTRATED
% NEW YORK PRINTED BY
J.
J
LITTLE & CO. 1908
UBRARYofCO^saeESs] Two Copies H&c&)t^&
MAR 5 1908 ci)iry
'.x:
Copyright, 1904,
THE MACMILLAN COMPANY Copyright, 1908,
By
Note. in this
a. L. a.
—A
HIMMELWRIGHT
large portion of the subject matter
volume was published
originally in Gu7ts,
and Tackle (American Sportsman's Library), copyright, 1904, by The MacAmmi4.nition^
millan Co.
NC
DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF
ARTHUR CORBIX GOULD
" Every right-minded and patriotic citizen of the United States should be a inan.
It is
good marks-
a duty he owes to his country
under her present liberal institutions, which do not exact military service, but presume reliance in a large measure on citizen soldiery in case of
war."
PREFACE Interest in pistol and revolver shooting has
increased very rapidly in recent years and particularly since
smokeless powder has been intro-
duced. revolver and the magazine pistol
now
constitute part of the regular equipment of
army
The
and cavalry troops.
Regulaand navy tions governing practice shooting with these arms have been issued and adopted by both officers
branches of the service and by the National Guard of the various States. In the National Rifle Association
and
in
the various State Rifle
Associations that have recently been organized,
and revolver shooting has an important place, and the matches provided are largely In the numerous civilian shooting patronized. clubs scattered throughout the country pistol and revolver shooting has become extremely popular, and in many cases the majority of the pistol
members
practice
more frequently with
smaller arms than with the
the
rifle.
Practice with the pistol and revolver affords
training in sighting, steady holding and pulling
Preface
6.
the trigger, which are the essential features of rifle
shooting
and the
also.
fact that skill
instantly utilized in
ment
On
account of this relation, with these arms can be shooting, the develop-
rifle
marksmanship with the pistol and revolver properly assumes national importance. While numerous standard works have been of
written on the subject of
comparatively
little
rifle
shooting, there
information
available
is
on
and revolver shooting. The object of volume is to supply practical information
pistol this
on
this subject.
The author
has attempted to
and concise manner, of the volume as small as prac-
treat the subject in a clear
keeping the size ticable and so as to be conveniently carried in Particular pains have been taken the pocket. to give sound advice and elementary instruction to beginners.
The author extends ments
to
Messrs.
his grateful
J.
Humphrey, William E.
B.
acknowledg-
Crabtree,
John
T-
Carlin, Chas. S. Axtell,
Walter Winans, Walter G. Hudson, Ed. Taylor, J. E. Silliman, M. Hays, Baron Speck von Sternburg, and the various arms and ammunition manufacturers referred to herein, for valuable suggestions, information and data in preparing this volume. A. L. A. HiMMELWRIGHT.
CONTENTS Dedication Preface
3
.
5
Contents
7
Illustrations Historical
9 II
.
Arms
15
.
Military
i6
Target Pocket Ammunition
24 31
.
34
Rim-fire Cartridges Central-fire Cartridges
Sights Position
.....
35 3^
53
Target Shooting
55 61
Revolver Practice for the Police
82
Pistol Shooting for Ladies
S6
Clubs and Ranges Hints to Beginners
90 100
.
Selection of Arms
.
Manipulation Position and Aiming
Target Practice Cleaning and Care of Arms Reloading Ammunition .
Primers Shells Bullets
100 105
106 III
121
124 125
125
.....
Powders Reloading
126 132 136
Contents
8
APPENDIX PAGE
Annual Championship Matches
....
of the United
States Revolver Association Rules and Regulations Governing the Cham-
143
pionship Matches Methods and Customs Followed in Conducting THE Annual Championship Matches Instructions to Range Officers in Charge of THE Annual Championship Matches Records of the United States Revolver Asso-
146
.
.
.
ciation
INDEX
.
........ -
«
149 151
152 155
ILLUSTRATIONS Revolvers
...
PAGE .
.
19, 21, 23,
.
Pistols
;^;^
23, 25, 27, 33
Pistol and Revolver Cartridges Sights Shooting Positions:
and Bullets
^6 to 47 53,
54
Walter Winans, C. S. Axtell 57 Thomas Anderton, C. S. Richmond 58 E. E. Patridge, Sergt. W. E. Petty 59 .60 J. E. Gorman, Dr. R. H. Sayre Standard American Target 78 Combination Set. — Smith and Wesson .38-CAL. .
.
.
.
.
.
.... .
.
Revolver, .22-CAL. Pistol, Utensils, etc, in Case 89 Details of Alternating Targets, Pit, etc., for 50-YARD Range 93 Trolleys," Details of Booths at Firing Line, AND Butt for Gallery Ranges 95 Correct Manner of Holding the Revolver 102 Correct Position of the Sights in Aiming at
....... *^
•
•
.
.
the Target 108 The Travel of the Line of the Sights about THE Bull's-eye in Aiming. 108 Moulding Bullets 128
....
.
.
.
.
.
.
THE PISTOL AND REVOLVER Pistol-shooting as a pastime has been practised the time of the
since It is
discovery of gunpowder.
only recently, however, that
it
has been rec-
ognized as a legitimate sport.
The
useful
and
practical qualities of the pistol
and revolver have been developed almost wholly during the
last half-century.
Before this period
the small arms designed to be fired with one hand
were crude and inaccurate, and were intended to be used only at short range as weapons of defence.
The
single-barrelled muzzle-loading
nevertheless, been officer's
These
part
the
army and navy
pistols
were
of large caliber, smooth-bored,
The
and a large charge
load was a spherical of
powder.
man
accuracy was obtained to hit a
20
has,
equipment since the sixteenth century.
heavy, and unwieldy. bullet
of
pistol
paces,
which was
deemed
Enough at
sufficient.
usefulness of these arms in action
to
The
was limited
the firing of a single shot, and then using II
15
to
them
The
12
Pistol
as missiles or clubs.
considered
and Revolver
The
pistol in early
gentleman's
a
arm
—a
days was
luxury.
It
was the arm generally selected for duelling when
was
that code I
o
to
in vogue, the contestants standing
20 paces apart and firing at the word of
command.
The development
of the pistol
has been con-
temporaneous and closely identified with that of the
With
rifle.
barrel, the
the grooving or rifling of the
accuracy was greatly improved and
arm adapted to conical bullets. Although numerous attempts were made to devise a multishot arm with flint, wheel, and match locks, it was the
not until the percussion cap was invented that a practicable
arm
this character
of
was produced.
This was a "revolver'' invented by Colonel Colt of Hartford, Conn.,
and consisted
of a single barrel
with a revolving cylinder at the breech containing the charges, the
mechanism being such
that the
cocking of the piece after each discharge revolved the cylinder sufficiently to bring a loaded in line with the barrel.
The
chamber
greatest advance in
was the introduction breech-loading, employing am-
the development of firearms of the
system
munition
in the
of
form
of cartridges.
rendered the operation of loading
This principle
much
simpler
Historical
and quicker, and and general
The
improved the
vastly
efficiency
utility of the arms.^
popularity
present
volver shooting
provements
is
in the
of
and
pistol
re-
due, no doubt, to recent im-
The
arms and ammunition.
arms are now marvels
of fine
to manipulate, durable,
With
13
workmanship, easy
and extremely accurate.
the introduction of smokeless powders, the
smoke, fouling, and noise have been reduced to a
The
minimum. not
has been,
effect of these
only
to
increase
improvements the
efficiency
but also the pleasure of shooting
of the arms,
them.
As a mend it.
sport, pistol It is
shooting has
much
to
com-
a healthful exercise, being practised
out-of-doors in the open
There are no un-
air.
desirable concomitants, such as gambling, coarseness,
and rough and dangerous
excel, regular
play.
and temperate habits
of
In order to life
must be
formed and maintained.
It
more
to act in unison
alert
and
trains
them
renders the senses
For a detailed history of the evolution of the
and in
pistol and revolver, the "Text-book for Officers at Schools of Musketry," Longman & Co., London; "Kriegstechnische Zeitschrift," Heft I and II, 1901, Mittler & Sohn, Berlin; "The Modern American Pistol and Revolver," Bradlee Whidden, Boston. Many interesting specimens of ancient and modern pistols and revolvers are owned and exhibited by the United 1
reader
is
referred to
States Cartridge
Company
of Lowell, Mass.
14
The
harmony.
But, above
Pistol
and Revolver all,
in
skill
shooting
is
a
useful accomplishment.
Any
one possessing ordinary health and good
become a good pistol shot. Persons who are richly endowed by nature with those physical qualities which specially fit them sight may,
by
practice,
for expert shooting, will, of course, master the art
sooner than those less favored
shown
conclusively
that
;
but
excellence
it
is
has been
more a
question of training and practice than of natural gift
Some
of
the most brilliant
shooting has.
been done by persons possessing a decidedly nervous temperament; but those of phlegmatic
temperament and It
reliable is
will generally
make more uniform
marksmen.
much more
pistol or revolver
difficult to
shoot well with the
than with the
having a stock to
rifle.
rest against the
The
latter,
shoulder and
steady one end of the piece, has a decided advantage in
quick aiming and in pulling the trigger.
The
former, without a stock and being held in one
hand with the arm extended so
as to be free from
the body,
is
without any anchor or support what-
and
is
free to
ever,
sequently the least
move jar,
in all directions.
Con-
jerk in pulling the trigger,
puff of wind, or unsteadiness of the hand greatly
Arms Intelligent practice will,
disturbs the aim. ever,
to
1
overcome these
difficulties
how-
and disadvantages
such a degree that an expert shot with a pistol
or revolver under favorable conditions can equal
a fair shot with a
When
up
at the target
rifle
200 yd.
to
the novice essays to shoot the pistol or
the results are generally disappointing
revolver,
and discouraging; but rapid progress invariably rewards the efforts of those
when once thoroughly shooting, there
who
and
persevere,
interested in this style of
comes a fascination
for
it
that
frequently endures throughout a lifetime.
Arms The term
"
pistol "
is
frequently applied indis-
criminately to the single-shot pistol and the volver.
A
marked
re-
between these arms
distinction
has gradually been developed.
The
pistol is
now
recognized as a single-shot arm, adapted for a light
charge,
accuracy. to target
and designed
Its
use
is
to
secure
extreme
limited almost exclusively
and exhibition shooting.
The modern
revolver
is
an arm with a
re-
volving cylinder holding five or six cartridges,
which are before
it
at the instant is
command
necessary to reload.
of the shooter It
is
designed
The
1
and Revolver
Pistol
heavy charges, and
for
a practical and for-
Revolvers are made in great va-
midable weapon. riety,
is
and adapted
such as
for various purposes,
military service, target shooting, pocket weapons, etc.
The
best
may be had
grades of pistols and revolvers
grades with which the market flooded should be avoided. of
The cheap
at a reasonable price.
at
is
They
all
times
are incapable
doing good work, and frequently are positively
dangerous, on account of being
made
of inferior
materials.
Military Arms.
— The revolver and the magaTo
zine pistol are used for military service.
ful-
must be strong, very durable, and withstand a great amount of fil
the requirements these arms
hard usage without
becoming
The
disabled.
effectiveness,
or "stopping power,"
importance.
The
is
of
prime
caliber should be large,
and
the charge sufficiently powerful to give a penetration of at least 6
in.
There has been
in pine.
a tendency in recent years to reduce the caliber of military revolvers.
While
this
has resulted in
increased velocity and penetration, and reduced the weight of the ammunition,
it
has not im-
proved the stopping power of the arms.
The
sights
must
in all cases
be very substan-
Arms and
tial,
solidly fixed to the
from 4 to to
7^- in.
lb.
2f
powder
is
frame or
barrel.
The
from 4 to 8 lb., the barrel length, and the weight from 2
varies
pull
trigger
1^
in
Ammunition loaded with smokeless now invariably used for military
service.
The States
and
service revolvers as issued to the United
army and navy
Colt,
munition.
both .38
cal.,
are the
Smith
and taking the same am-
They have passed
the
prescribed
by the United States
series of tests as established
government,^ and
& Wesson
represent,
without doubt, the
highest development of the military revolver.
The arms shown
in
Figs,
i
and
2
have solid
frames, and the actions are almost identical, the
cylinder swinging out
when
to
released by a catch.
the
left,
The
on a hinge,
shells
may
then
be extracted simultaneously by pushing back the extractor rod.
The Smith & Wesson has an
ad-
ditional locking device
in front of the cylinder.
The
between these arms
principal difference
is
in
the shape of the handles.
Other
Smith 1
excellent
& Wesson
military
revolvers
are
the
Russian Model and the Colt
See Ordnance Reports, Department of War, Washington, D. C,
complete details of
tests, etc.
for
The
1
New
Pistol
and Revolver The ammunition
Service, both .44 cal.
these
was
arms
powder;
formerly
loaded
smokeless cartridges
but
for
with
black
have
been
adapted to them, which give slightly increased velocity
and approximately the same accuracy.
The Smith & Wesson Russian Model has hinge "tip-up" action, with an automatic
The
ing device.
action
eject-
operated by raising a
is
catch in front of the hammer.
on account
nipulate, and,
a
easy to ma-
It is
of the accessibility of
the breech, the barrel can be readily inspected
This arm
and cleaned.
single action.
is
New
Service
to that of the .38-cal. revolver,
shown
The
action of the Colt
with a solid frame.
The foregoing are capable of 3-in. circle at
The
It is
making groups
of ten shots
2,
on a
50 yd.
one
popular arms for hard service.
It
double action.
The
of the
most
has a solid
The arm
by opening a gate on the right-hand the cylinder.
in Fig.
arms, with good ammunition,
is
is
similar
double action.
Colt Frontier Model
frame and
is
is
operated
side,
back
of
cartridges are inserted in the
cylinder through the gate, the cylinder being re-
volved by hand until the
come opposite the
gate.
respective chambers
In the
same manner,
Fig.
I
.
— Smith & Wesson New Military Revolver,
Six shots; 6^-inch barrel; weight,
Fig. 2.
Six shots;
Fig.
3.
i
lb.,
15 oz.
;
.38 cal.
— Colt New Army Revolver.
6-inch barrel; weight, 2 lb.;
.38 cal.
— Smith & Wesson Russian Model Revolver.
Six shots; 6^-inch barrel; weight, 39 J oz.; .44
cal.
^o
The
Pistol
and Revolver
the shells are ejected by pushing the extractor
rod back into each of the chambers.
This revolver vice
weapon
in
45
cal.
was formerly the
ser-
United States army, and
of the
is
very powerful and durable.
The Smith & Wesson
Schofield Model, .45 cal,
was also formerly a United States service weapon.
The ammunition
for this arm, while less powerful
than the .45 Colt, was admirably adapted for military service,
and had much
The Webley, volver calibre
"
W.
G." or
less recoil.
"Army
Model,"
an English arm of much merit.
is is
.455.
re-
The
has a hinge "tip-up" action,
It
with an automatic extractor very similar to the
Smith
&
Wesson.
weapon adopted by the Joint War Office and Admiralty Committee for the British army and navy is the "Webley Mark IV," or "Service Model," revolver. This model is almost
The
service
identical with the
barrel
is
4
in.
Army
Model, except that the
long and the weight
On account of the
is
2 lb. 3 oz.
short barrel, the accuracy of this
weapon does not equal that of the Army Model. " Another English arm is the "Webley-Fosbury automatic
revolver.
The
cylinder and cocking the
recoil
hammer,
revolving the it
can be fired
Fig. 4.
Six shots;
5
Fig.
6.
1 -inch
5.
barrel;
weight, 2
lb.,
8 oz.; .45
cal.
— Colt Frontier ^lodel Revolver.
5j-inch barrel; weight, 2
Six shots;
Fig.
— Colt New Service Revolver.
lb.,
5 oz.
;
.45 cal.
— Webley "W. G." Army Model Revolver.
Six shots;
6-inch barrel; weight, 2
lb.,
8 oz.;
.455 cal.
The
22
Pistol
and Revolver
as rapidly as the automatic pistols.
It
cham-
is
bered for the 455 service cartridge loaded with 6^ gr. of cordite. This arm has been introduced since 1900.
The magazine operated by the
or automatic
pistol,
which
is
the latest type of hand
recoil, is
It
has been perfected and introduced
since 1899,
and has almost double the velocity
and range
of
firearm.
the
The
revolver.
Mauser, Mannlicher, and
Mors
Colt,
are
leading makes of this style of pistol.
Luger,
among
the
All of these
arms have been tested by the United States government.^
A
limited
number
named have been used
the
of
first
two
since 1903 in the United
States army.
In both the Colt and the tridges
are
inserted in
Luger
clips
breech through the handle.
pistols the car-
and fed into the
In the
Mauser
pistol
the cartridges are supplied in clips from the top
and forced into a magazine located
in front of the
trigger.
The magazine of
about
pistols
five shots
can be
per second.
fired at the rate
These arms equal
the best military revolvers in accuracy. 1
See Ordnance Reports, Department of War, Washington, D.C.,
complete details of
tests, etc.
for
Fig.
7.
— Webley-Fosbury Automatic Revolver.
Six shots; 6-inch barrel; weight, 2
Fig.
8.
— Colt
lb.,
Automatic
lb., 5 oz.;
.38 caL
— The Parabellum or '*Luger" Automatic
Eight shots; 4f-inch barrel; weight,
I
cal.
Pistol.
Seven shots; 6-inch barrel; weight, 2
Fig. 9.
SJ oz.; .455
lb.,
13.4 oz.;
Pistol.
.30 cal.
The
24
Many will
and Revolver
Pistol
persons believe that the magazine pistol
soon supersede the revolver for general use.
While
may
this
be the case eventually,
pistol
quently more care
for,
special
many
is
more complicated, and conse-
difficult to learn to
shoot with and
On
account of the
than the revolver.
problems to be solved
of
in the
mechanism,
them balance poorly and the
trigger pull
The
almost invariably long and creeping.
is
novice will also find
it
difficult to
in shooting these arms,
mechanism, louder
avoid flinching
on account
report, etc.
The
of the recoil line of sight
being considerably higher than the grip, are not held perfectly plumb, or in the tion at each shot, the shooting lar.
The
revolver.
not
The
few years.
likely to occur within the next
magazine
is
it
cost
is
is
if
they
same
posi-
liable to
be irregu-
about double that of a good
Until these undesirable features
and
disadvantages can be remedied or eliminated, the revolver will probably remain a popular arm.
Target Arms. est possible
many
— For target purposes the
accuracy
is
desirable.
To
features essential in a military
rificed.
great-
obtain
arm
this,
are sac-
Delicate adjustable sights are employed,
the trigger pull
is
rel is increased,
the charge reduced, etc.
reduced, the length of the bar-
Fig. io.
Ten
shots;
— Mauser
Automatic
51-inch barrel; weight, 2
Fig. II.
Fig. 12.
lb.,
— Smith & Wesson
lo-inch barrel; weight,
— Stevens
I
lb.,
Pistol,
lo-inch barrel; weight,
i
Pistol.
8J
7I oz.; .30
Pistol, oz.;
.22 cal.
Gould Model.
lb.,
12 oz.; .22
cal.
cal.
The Pistol and Revolver
26
The most accurate arms
available at the present
time are the single-shot pistols manufactured by
&
Smith
Wesson, Springfield, Mass.; The
J.
Arms & Tool Co., Chicopee Falls, Mass.; The Remington Arms Co., Ilion, N.Y. and
Stevens
;
These
William Wurfflein, Philadelphia, Pa. tols are
furnished in calibers from .22 rim-fire to
The
.38 central-fire. in
length
and the trigger
rifle
In
the
pistols are of .22
cal.,
pull
and chambered
specially bored
long
barrels are generally 10 in.
approved form these
latest
pis-
cartridge.
This
ant shooting charge, and
2
lb.
for the
a light, clean, pleas-
is
may
be fired
many
very
arms
of this caliber should, therefore,
Pistol
fatigue.
times
shooting with
with
little
rim-fire,
become a
popular pastime for ladies as well as gentlemen.
The Smith & Wesson and an automatic best materials fitting
pistol has a tip-up action
extractor.
It
is
made
and with the greatest
care.
of the
The
and workmanship are superior to that
any other machine-made
similar to that of the Russian
The Stevens
The
pistol.
Model
action
of is
revolver.
pistols are furnished in
two other
Lord " Model has a large frame and handle and a heavy barrel. Its weight is 2| lb. The " Conlin " Model
models for target-shooting.
The
''
r^a.
Fig.
13.
— Wurfflein
io-inch barrel; weight, 2
Fig. 14.
Fig. 15.
2 oz.;
lb.,
— Remington
lO-inch barrel; weight, 2
Pistol,
lb.,
Pistol.
8 oz.
— Gastinne-Renette
IOj\-inch barrel; weight, 2
.22 cal.
lb.,
;
.44 cal.
Pistol.
6 oz.; .44
cal.
The
28 is
the
same
Pistol "
as the
and Revolver Gould
"
Model, but has a
The Gould
spur added to the trigger guard.
Model
is
the most
All
popular.
models
these
have a tip-up action and an automatic extractor.
A
knob on the left side is pressed the barrel and operate the action. small
The
Wurfflein
tip-up action.
pistol,
It is
well
to release
like the Stevens,
made and has
has a
a handle
very similar in shape to that of the duelling pistol of
The
former days.
action
is
operated by releas-
ing the catch on the handle, back of the hammer.
The
Remington
strong action, and
had chambered
is
has
pistol
an exceedingly
the only pistol that can be
Russian cartridge.
for the .44
The
has a large handle and a heavy barrel. tion
is
when
operated
by throwing
the
back the
hammer
with
thumb, simultaneously ejecting the empty all
these
are
2-in. circle
50 yd.
A
very accurate pistol for gallery and short-
range shooting of
the
shell.
pistols
capable of placing ten shots within a at
ac-
at full-cock
is
breech-block
With good ammunition
It
is
made by M. Gastinne-Renette
Paris and used in
his
gallery in
that city.
These are muzzle-loading and very tedious and inconvenient
to
manipulate.
For
this
reason
Arms
29
A
they have not become popular.
arms have been made up
few of these
as breech-loaders, with
a tip-up action similar to the Stevens, and cham-
bered for the
44 Russian
the pistol has given very
The pistol,
revolver
is
on account
In this form
cartridge.
good
results.
not quite as accurate as the of the necessity of
cylinder detached from the barrel.
which the cylinder revolves
is
If
having the the pin on
not at right angles
with the end of the cylinder, there will be more space between the cylinder and the breech end of the barrel in
The
in others.
of gas
some
positions of the cylinder than
escaping from the different chambers of
the cylinder,
and consequently irregular shooting.
The accuracy
of
upon the degree chambers
the
revolver depends
the
of the cylinder align with the bore of
chambers do not align
off.
This
is
When
the
perfectly, the bullet enters
barrel eccentrically
shaved
largely
of perfection in w^hich all
the barrel at the instant of discharge.
the
amounts
result will be varying
and a portion
of
it
is
fatal to accuracy, especially
when smokeless powder is used. ment of chamber and barrel is
Imperfect alignalso the
most
quent cause of the "leading" of the barrel.
fre-
Some
very ingenious mechanical expedients are used in
The
30
Pistol
and Revolver
the best revolvers to reduce to a
wear
of those parts
minimum
the
which operate and hold the
cylinder in position.
The
revolvers generally used for target shoot-
ing are the military arms already described, cham-
bered for special cartridges, sights, special handles,
suit the
whims and
fitted
with target
and other modifications
tastes of
to
The
individuals.
best and most experienced shots are, however, careful to
keep the modifications
of all their
arms
within the rules and regulations of the various national organizations,^ in order that they
may be
used in the annual competitions and other impor-
These organizations control
tant events.
pistol
and revolver shooting, and conduct annual com"
petitions.
Freak
"
arms which do not comply
with the rules are not allowed in the competilittle
or no
value other than for experimental purposes.
Tar-
tions, are
seldom
practical,
and have
get arms are generally used for trick and exhibition shooting.^ 1
The United
States Revolver Association,
tion of Great Britain,
programmes and
The National
Rifle Associa-
and the United Shooting Societies of France.
details,
For
address the secretaries of the respective organiza-
tions. 2
For descriptions and
illustrations of this style of shooting, see
Art of Revolver Shooting," G. P. Putnam's Sons, This elaborate work contains also
T
much
New York
'*
The
and London.
detailed information, valuable sug-
yirms Pocket Arms.
3
— The most extensive use
revolver as a pocket
weapon
is
^
of the
for police service.
Special arms are manufactured to meet the require-
These weapons are generally similar
ments.
military revolvers,
the
but adapted for lighter
charges, and consequently weigh less.
such as sights, hammer,
jections,
to
All pro-
must be
etc.,
eliminated or minimized so as not to catch in
drawing the arm from the pocket or
The
holster.
barrels are from 3 to 5 in. in length, the trigger pull 4
lb.,
and the caliber usually
Of these two
calibers, .38 is
arm
the general purposes of an
The
difference in weight
and effectiveness
much
.32
or
.38.
preferable for
of this character.'
is slight,
while the power
of the larger caliber is
almost
double that of the smaller.
The pocket arms shown practically miniatures of in
Figs.
I
and
2.
and 17 are the military arms shown in Figs. 16
They have
solid frames
and
actions identical with those of the military arms.
They
are
made only
in .32 cal.,
and are double
action.
One Smith gestions,
shooting.
of the
most recent pocket revolvers
& Wesson
Safety Hammerless.
is
the
This arm
and many interesting personal experiences in relation to revolver
3-
The
Pistol
and Revolver
has a safety clutch in the back of the handle, so
designed that unless the piece is
impossible to operate
and desirable features
in.
This arm
With
to
It
is
4-in. barrels,
many
has
commend
The standard
pocket weapon. 4
it.
properly held
is
it
it
valuable
as a practical
length of barrel
is
also furnished in .32 cal.
the foregoing pocket weapons
are capable of shooting regularly within a 2-in. circle at 12 yd.
A
heavier and correspondingly more powerful
pocket revolver
is
This arm
revolver.
Colt
the is
"
Double Action
chambered
for the Colt
.41 cal. short
and long
frame, and
operated exactly like the Colt Fron-
is
tier
Model
ble,
and accurate.
(Fig.
cartridges.
It is
5).
It
has a solid
compact, strong, dura-
The "Single Action Army"
is
another Colt
revolver that has been extensively used as a belt
or holster weapon.
The mechanism and
action
are similar to that of the preceding arm, except that
A
it is
heavier and larger, and
very handy
little
arm
on hunting and fishing
mond Model
is
single action.
to carry in the pocket
trips
is
single-shot pistol.
the Stevens Dia-
This
pistol
very accurate, and can be depended on to grouse, ducks, rabbits, and other small game.
is
kill
The
Fig.
1
6.
— Colt New Police
Fig. 17.
— Smith
weight,
Six shots; 4-inch barrel;
18 oz.; .32
Fig.
18.
— Smith
18^ oz.; .32
& Wesson
;
I lb. J
4-inch barrel
li oz.
;
:
Fig. i8a.
Safetv
weight,
.38 cal.
Fig, ip,
Wesson Pocket
4i-inch barrel; weight,
Six shots;
cal.
cal.
— Smith & Wesson Pocket Revolver.
Hanimerless Revolver. Five shots
cS:
Revolver.
Revolver.
-
Seven shots
3^-inch barrel
;
10 oz.
— Stevens Diamond Model
;
.22 cal.
Pistol.
6-inch barrel; weight, 8| oz.; .22
cal.
;
weight,
The
34 .2
2-cal.,
Pistol
and Revolver
hollow-pointed
short,
should
bullet
be
used, or the regular .22 short cartridge, with the front of the bullet cut off square, so as to leave a
This
flat point.
will increase the killing effect of
the bullet considerably.
Ammunition
The degree in the
of perfection that has
manufacture
of
ammunition
been attained is
remarkable.
Generally speaking, the smaller the charge the
more
difficult
standing
this,
it is
to
make
we have
it
Notwith-
accurate.
in the .22-cal.
ammunition
a tiny cartridge the accuracy of which falls litde
short of the marvellous.
Until very recently, black
powder ammunition was used almost exclusively for pistol and revolver shooting. In calibers larger than .22, smokeless powders are nowextensively used, especially in military shooting,
the regulation full charge cal. pistols,
is
fifty
In the .22-
the fouling of the black powders
a very serious matter, and
shoot
required.
it is
not
where
is
not
uncommon
to
or a hundred rounds without the neces-
sity of cleaning.
the fouling
is
In the larger calibers, however,
frequently so excessive that
the accuracy after the tenth shot.
cleaning that
is
The
it
affects
incessant
necessary in order to get good
Ammunition
35
powder ammunition was a great drawback, and detracted much from the results
with black
Fortunately this
pleasure of revolver shooting. objection
is
now
by the use
entirely eliminated
of
smokeless powders.
To
give good results, the proportions of any
given charge must be adapted to the caliber, length of barrel, and weight of the arm in which it is
to be used.
These proportions are generally
determined by experiment. cartridge
The accuracy
of the
depends largely upon the uniformity In ammunition for mili-
exercised in the loading.
tary service the shells are crimped on the bullets to
hold them
in place.
This
is
not desirable
black powder target ammunition, but
in
essary in the
all
is
nec-
smokeless ammunition to confine
powder and produce uniform
results.
In the following detailed description of the cartridges in general use the weight of the black
powder charges only Rim-fire
are given.
Cartridges.
— These
nate of mercury for priming
contain
around the outer
edge of the rim, or base
of the shell,
erally loaded with black
powder.
The
".22-cal.
extensively
long
rifle
'^
fulmi-
and are gen-
cartridge
used for pistol shooting
is
more
than any
The
36
and Revolver
Pistol
the most accurate of the .22-caL car-
other.
It is
tridges,
being well proportioned, the bullet well
and the
lubricated,
shell
uncrimped.
In addition to this, the
and has very clean shooting
sive
Fig. 20.
40
— Powder,
gr.;
exact
FiG. 21.
bullet,
3^
0.223.
This cartridge,
shooting. rel,
5 gr.;
cal.,
inexpen-
is
qualities.
It
adapted for pistol
therefore, particularly well
is,
50
ammunition
fired
— Powder, 3
S'^*?
exact
gr.;
cal.,
from a
bullet,
0.223.
lo-in. bar-
will shoot regularly inside of a 2-in. circle, at
and inside a
yd.,
5-in. circle, at
Another excellent cartridge the ".22 short." tridge fouls very
it is
in this caliber is
Like the preceding, little
this
car-
and gives almost equal
curacy up to 50 yd. report
100 yd.
preferred by
On
account of
many
its
ac-
lighter
for gallery shooting.
In both of these cartridges only the surface of the bullet outside of the shell in this
way, the lubricant
melted
if
warm
day.
this, as,
lubricated.
is is
easily
Exposed
rubbed
off,
or
allowed to stand in the sunlight on a
Great care should be taken to prevent
without lubrication, the bullets will lead
the barrel and cause inaccurate shooting.
Ammunition
The
Winchester
2 2-caL
rifle,
results
the
in
It is
suitable
ing,
making
game o
for
.22
The
pistol.
bullet has a flat point, it
a cartridge with in-
more powerful than the and gives good
side lubrication.
long
is
2>7
shoot-
fig. '''''''''
22.— Powder, ^^ ^'-
'''''
ygr.; '^''^
0223.
and the krbrication being
within the
shell,
may
these cartridges
be carried
loose in the pocket.
All the
.22-cal. cartridges
can be had with hol-
low-pointed bullets, which are to be preferred for
game-shooting.
They
are also furnished loaded
When
with smokeless powder. first
far
used in
.22-cal.
this
powder was
ammunition, the results were
from satisfactory, but as now manufactured the
smokeless ammunition approximates very closely in uniformity
black powder.
mory" and are special
and accuracy to that loaded with
The
Long Rifle ''ArSmith & Wesson Long
.22-cal.
the .22-cal.
makes
of the long
rifle
cartridge that
are furnished with a crimped shell, preventing
the bullet from becoming dislodged and thus
adapting
this
popular
cartridge
for
use
in
revolvers of this calibre.
The
.25-cal.
Stevens
is
a
much more powerful
cartridge than any of the preceding, and gives
The
38
Pistol
and Revolver
excellent results in the pistol.
who wish
those
than
is
a
more powerful
furnished in .22
selected
It is
by
rim-fire cartridge
cal.
Rim-fire cartridges in larger caliber than .25 are
used for derringers (large-bore,
single-shot
pocket-pistols
now seldom
used) and inferior grades I^iG.
23.
let,
— Powder,
II gr.;
,
,
of revolvers.
These
67 gr.; exact cal, 0.257.
tridges
sometimes
lack
uniformity in caliber
made by defective,
car-
bul-
when
different manufacturers, are frequently
and discharge occasionally
the action of the
They consequently
arm
in
in closing
which they are loaded.
lack the safety, reliability, and
accuracy of the corresponding calibers in centralfire
ammunition.
Rim-fire cartridges cannot be
reloaded. Central-fire Cartridges.
— This type
of cartridge
has a brass or copper primer charged with a small quantity of fulminate of mercury, and containing a skeleton anvil of brass.
The primer
fits
water-
tight in a socket in the centre of the base of the shell.
After being discharged, the primer can
be renewed and the shell reloaded.
In
all
the
central-fire cartridges the lubrication of the bullet is
inside of
the shell,
rendering this
ammuni-
Ammunition
much more
tion
39
serviceable and less liable to be
damaged.
The Smith
Fig. 24.
%%
.32-cal. S.
&
Wesson,
— Powder, gr.
;
& W.
exact
10 gr.
cal.,
;
cartridge
Colt, or other
bullet,
Fig. 25.
100
0.313.
is
adapted to the
pocket revolvers.
— Powder, gr.;
exact
13 gr.; bullet, cal.,
0.313.
Occasionally single-shot pistols are chambered for this cartridge.
to
A
50 yd.
It is
fairly
gallery charge
shell consisting of 4 gr. of
or
"
round
The
"
bullet
.32-cal.
accurate at ranges up
S.
furnished in this
is
powder and
weighing 47
gr.
& W. Long
is
and powerful than the preceding
a spherical
more accurate cartridge.
It
gives excellent results in both the pistol and volver.
The
of the .32 S.
The
gallery charge
.32-cal.
New
the same as that
& W.
rate cartridge,
Colt
is
re-
Colt
New
Police
is
also
an accu-
and was designed specially
Police revolver.
A
for the
gallery charge
is
furnished in this shell consisting of a
reduced to
powder charge 7 er. and the Fig. 26.
regular bullet.
let,
— Powder, 13
100 gr.; exact
gr.; bul-
cal.,
0.313
The
40
The .32-44
Pistol
S.
designed for the
The
bullet
is
and Revolver
& W. is a special target cartridge S. & W. Russian Model revolver.
seated inside of the shell, which
The
and uncrimped.
straight
chambered either
The
shown. FiG.27.-Powder,iigr.;bui. let,
83
exact
gr.;
cal.,
two
lengths
17-gr. shell is
as
preferred,
^j^^j.^}!
be
to take shells of
the
of
may
revolver
is
^ ^ 11-83 charge
the
-^
0.323.
loaded in
it
may
also be
desired.
if
A
gallery charge, consisting of Powder, 17
gr.;
bullet,
98
gr.
4 gr. of powdcr aiid a rouud bullet
weighing 50
gr.,
may
also be used in both shells.
This affords a wide range 50
of charges in
gr.
one
special feature
tridge
is
that
charge at
gallery
11-83 charge in the
at
long shell
same
the
12
50 yd. is
yd.
sights
are
The
shot
making and a
from a
of
full
car-
used for
the
ten-shot groups in a
barrel,
for
the
charge (17-98)
the most accurate of
6^-in.
A
this
suitable
black powder revolver cartridges. nition,
shell.
all
the
This ammuis
capable of
2-in. circle at
50
yd.,
100 yd. The 11-83 charge, under the same conditions, will also shoot in a 2-iri, 5-in. circle at
Ammunition
I
good
results in single-shot pistols.
The
Colt,
much more
&
S.
& W.
.38 S.
Wesson,
.32
W., and
conse-
is
and
practical
When
revolver charge.
4-in. barrel,
Fig. 28.
The
50 yd.
powder and a round
shot
buUet,
— Powder,
146
& W.
cai.,
^-358.
20
at
and
yd.,
gallery charge
bullet
weighing
is
6 gr. of
to the Colt
The
Military revolvers.
in a 6-in.
71 gr.
These two cartridges are adapted S.
15 gr.;
exact
gr.;
groups of ten shots can be
in a 2-in. circle
circle at
^
.
better adapted for a pocket
made
It is
powerful than the
-
from a
&
adapted to the Smith
is
and other pocket revolvers.
more
quently
and
shoot in a
will
This cartridge also gives
20 yd.
circle at
-in.
The 4-50 charge
50 yd.
circle at
41
first is
the
Fig. 29.
Powder, i8
gr.
;
bullet,
150
gr.
Powder. 1\\ exact
gr.; cai.,
bullet, 158 gr.;
0.358.
regulation service charge, and the second
more powerful accurate.
special cartridge,
From
placed within a
a
and exceedingly
a 6-in. barrel six shots
6-in. circle at
is
lOO yd.
may be
Smokeless
The
42
Pistol
and Revolver
ammunition
in
and uniform
results; fifty to
may
caliber gives equally
this
good
one hundred shots
be fired without cleaning and without sensi-
bly affecting the accuracy.
The .38-44
& W. & W.
S.
signed for the S.
F IG. 30.
— Powder, 20
146 gr.; exact
It
is
gr.
cal.,
;
is
Russian Model revolver.
146
bullet,
another cartridge de-
gr.
iiogr.
100
72
gr.
gr.
0.360.
more powerful than the .32-44, but on
account of the excessive fouling of this charge as
now manufactured, the
is
impaired after
With an improved
seventh shot.
shooting charge
the accuracy
it
would be accurate and
tremely popular for target-shooting. tridge
was
cleaner-
originally designed
and
This car-
made
Chevalier Ira Paine, the noted pistol shot. the .32-44, the shell
and the bullet
is
flush with its
mouth.
is
straight
seated in
it
ex-
for
Like
and uncrimped,
so that the point
is
Several reduced charges
have been developed for this
shell.
The
Ideal
Manufacturing Company can furnish moulds for a conical bullet with a square base weighing
no
Ammunition
43
or with a concave base weighing 100 gr.
gr.,
powder charge for either bullet charge works well up to 50 yd.
A
smaller load
the regulation gallery charge of 6 gr. of
is
and a round bullet weighing 72
The
Russian^ was until recently the
.44-caL
While
it
tary service,
has sufficient power to
same
accuracy. AXr
& W.
In •
-D
l\/r
the J
Fig. 31. 1
Russian Model,
or the Colt
New
an
is
— Powder, 23 cal.,
gr.; bullet,
0.429.
not so great as to be unpleas-
is
black powder begins
with
exact
gr.;
much less than that of many The fouling of the full charge
and the fouling
smaller charges.
246
Service
revolver, the recoil
load
it
time, remark-
C S.
ant,
make
possesses,
it
able i?
for target-shoot-
charge for mili-
effective
at the
powder
gr.
most popular revolver cartridge ing.
This
9 gr.
is
The
"
to
cake
''
or
harden in the barrel after the twentieth shot, and, to
get
the
best
results,
the
cleaned after every ten shots. records
in
revolver
barrel
Nearly
shooting have
should be all
the great
been made
with this ammunition, and most of the important
matches have been won with ^
So named
cavalry.
after its
it.
A
great deal of
adoption as the service ammunition of the Russian
The
44
Pistol
and Revolver
experimental work has been done with this car-
and many reduced charges
tridge,
The
evolved.
Ideal Manufacturing
have
been
Company can
furnish moulds for the following bullets
:
—
23 gr.
60
205
121 gr.
gr.
12 gr.
gr.
15 gr-
7 gr-
175 gr
10 gr.
Fig. 32.
Fig. 33.
250
— Powder, 40 gr.;
exact
gr.
cal.,
;
bullet,
0.454.
Fig. 34.
The weight powder charge,
of each, with is
given.
the corresponding
These various loads
adapt this shell to almost any conceivable require-
Ammunition ments
The accuracy
in revolver shooting.
of the
charges fired from a 6|-in. barrel
various follows
45
:
is
—
Diameter of Circle Enclosing Group of
10
as
Shots
Charge 20 yds.
23-246
I
in.
U
in.
7-1 10
I
in.
2
in.
7-130 12-160
i\ in.
12-175
7-120
i\ in.
15-205
10-175
50 yds.
30 yds.
2\ in.
100 yds.
6
200 yds.
in.
15 in.
2\ in. 2
in.
2\
in.
2^
in.
2
in.
3
in.
3
in.
7 in.
i\ in.
Revolvers are sometimes chambered
the
for
.44-40-200, the .38-40-180, and the .32-20-115 rifle
cartridges.
These charges are not
as accu-
rate as the .44 Russian, but
can be relied on
shoot inside a
50 yd.
5-in.
circle at
tridges are desirable only to
use
the
when
same ammunition
it is
These
to
car-
an advantage
in the
and
rifle
r^olver, or in certain localities where only a few varieties of
ammunition are
powder charge makes the cartridges
named
to be had.
The
large
recoil of the first
rather unpleasant.
two
The 32-20
The
46
-115
the most accurate of these cartridges, and
is
gives
and Revolver
Pistol
the best results in the pistol or revolver.
All these
having flat-pointed bullets
cartridges
game
are well adapted for
shooting.
There are
no gallery loads for these cartridges.
The
.45 Colt
Army
the most powerful of
is
revolver cartridges.
the
It
w^as
all
formerly the
The
United States army service ammunition.
charge w^as so heavy, and the recoil so excessive, that
it
w^as
almost impossible to shoot
The
flinching.
charge was
service
without
it
afterward
made it much With the latter
modified to 28 gr. of powder, which
more desirable and
serviceable.
charge this cartridge
-250 Scofield Model of these
very similar to the .45-30
is
S.
of
The
them
bullet
caliber of the service
revolver of the British
army
and
suitable for military
gallery load for the .45 Colt
powder and a round
The
Both
cartridge.
sufficiently powerful, accurate,
are
clean-shooting to render service.
& W.
weighing
1
39
ammunition is
.455.
is
7 gr.
gr.
for the
This
is
a
very accurate cartridge, but not as powerful as the
corresponding military cartridges as used in this country.
A
special cylindrical bullet wdth a deep
convex hollow point
is
known
"
and
is
as the
furnished in the same shell
man
stopper."
Ammunition This form cal.
of bullet is
English cartridge that shoot.
450 and .38
used in the
The 450-13-225
cartridges also.
It is
47
is
accurate,
is
another
and pleasant
to
used largely at Bisley in the annual
revolver competitions of the National Rifle Association of Great Britain.
In
order to
avoid
excessive fouling,
a
self-
lubricating bullet has been invented and intro-
duced by Smith
& Wesson, which can be furnished B. Plunger
C. Ducts.
D. Metal Lining.
Fig. 35.
— Self-lubricating
Section showing details of construction.
cartridge.
in all calibers
core open the
above
.32.
which
core, after
bullet has a hollow
Lubricant
the rear.
in
The
it
is
closed
filled
is
into
with a lead
Four small ducts communicate from the forward end of the core to the exterior of the plunger.
bullet just
the
ahead
moment
of its
bearing on the barrel.
of discharge the
plunger
is
At
driven
forward, forcing the lubricant through the ducts into the barrel
ahead
of the bullet.
This bullet has given excellent it
a hundred or
results.
more shots may be
fired
With with
The
48
and Revolver
Pistol
black powder ammunition without causing sufficient fouling to
Nearly ferred
to
powder.
impair the accuracy.
the cartridges that have been re-
all
were originally designed for black The various manufacturers can now
supply them loaded with smokeless powder at a very slight advance
The
price.
in
cartridges
are loaded so as to give approximately the
same
velocity as black powder.
The accuracy and uniformity powder was not
at first equal
black, but with a better
with smokeless to that
knowledge
of the
of the action
and behavior of smokeless powders, these difficulties have been overcome and the smokeless ammunition now gives not only superior accuracy and reliability, but also causes much less fouling and smoke and has a lighter report. In ''gallery"
ammunition
light
conical
bullets
entirely superseded spherical bullets, less
powder
The cities,
is
and smoke-
almost invariably used.
following table gives the muzzle veloetc.,
the
of
principal
factory-loaded,
smokeless pistol and revolver cartridges. factories
aim
to
keep the muzzle
uniform for each cartridge. result
hav^e
with
the
velocities
To produce
various brands
of
The this
smokeless
Ammunition
49
more or less in strength, the weight of the powder charge Even when purchased in necessarily varies. powder,
of
all
which
differ
large quantities, different blends and packages
same brand
of the
of
powder occasionally vary
MUZZLE VELOCITIES, PENETRATION, ETC., OF FACTORY-LOADED SMOKELESS PISTOL AND REVOLVER CARTRIDGES s
.
Case or Shell.
OJ
bcv>, 53
JJ
CC5 ^ 3
.22
Long
Rifle
(Rim
Fire).
.
.
.30 Lug-er Automatic
.30
Mauser
.32 Colt
40
28
983
86
5
1134
266
10
Si
1308
322
12
4
lOIO
161
6
10
902
159
4
6
^37
4
6
794 768
105
3
847
129
4
139 217
3f
93
4*
"
85
"
71
88
.32
Smith
&
W^esson
.32
'*
"
"
Long...
*i
.32
Short Colt
98 80
.32
Long
81
6
100
4
790
146 158
4 6^
798 885
275
150
4
722
170
125
6
651
117
148
6
786
203
336
.32 Colt
New Police & Wesson
.38
Smith
.38
"
.38 Colt
"
"
*
New
Police
Special.
.38 Short Colt .38
Long
.38 Colt
"
Automatic
130
6
1070
.41
Short Colt
163
6
693
174
.41
Long
195
6
729
230
.44
Smith
246
TO
831
377
776 816
334 296
"
& Wesson
.45 Celt... .45 Colt
Automatic
Russian
250 200
71 5
.
;
1
The
50
somewhat
and Revolver
Pistol
For the^e reasons
in strength.
is
it
impracticable to designate the exact weight or
volume of any brand of powder which will in all cases produce the muzzle velocities referred to in the table.
The
following additional smokeless charges
have been developed by some of the expert revolver shots and will give excellent results.
Loads No. 6 and lo are recommended for gallery and 20-yd. shooting only the rest will give good results at 50 yd. No. i and 5 are hunt;
ing charges
ADDITIONAL SMOKELESS POWDER CHARGES 2
1.
1 Case or
shell.
OS
3
il zS a-
1
I
I
.32S.
3
&W. -
2 .38
.38S.&W. -
4 .38
HandEj.
6 .44 S.
.313
tt8
3118
I
to 30
.
.360
130
360271
I
to 30
Special
.
.360
114
36072
I
to 30
-
.
.360
130
360271
I
to 30
''
.
.360
150
360271
I
to 20
& W. Russian "
7 •44
"
.
•
8 •44
9 •44 TO .45 Colt
In
all
•431
no U,M,C,
I
•431
160
42Q106
I
.43^
175
429220
I
to 30
.431
205
429215
I
to 30
•457
144
H
6
-
''
5 .38
Brand of Smokeless Powder.
457130
I
the above charges the shells have a
to 30 to 30
to 30
Hazard No. 2 Rifle du Pont & Co.'s Bull's-eye.. u
u
n
il
C(
u
11
a
u
H
H
il
11
U
it
n
n
u
"
11
n
"
"
medium crimp on
Shot-g"un..
6.0 2.3
2.4 2.3
3.8 2.3 2.5 2.5
3-0 R
the middle of the
front band of the bullet.
With
the introduction of the magazine pistol,
Ammunition
51
special smokeless cartridges have
been devised
that are rimless and have a crease around the
base of the shell by which they
may be
held and
manipulated by the mechThis ammunition
anism.
4y|//AUT0M^^^
furnished loaded with
is
Powder, 8
full
mantled
nose
"
and "soft the
bullets,
let,
gr.
(smokeless)
;
bul-
105 gr.; exact cal, 0.358.
latter
for hunting purposes.
When
fired
from
the Powder, 5igr. (smokeless); bul-
regulation arms, this am-
let,
munition
capable
is
93
gr.;
exact
cal.,
.3016.
of
placing ten shots inside a 3-inch circle at 50 yd.,
and
inside a 7-inch circle at 100 ' yd.
P^^er.yigr. (smokeless) let,
These cartridges are
85 gr.;
exact
;
bul-
cal., .30x38.
fig. ^e.
hundred rounds may be fired without causing more fouling than is apparent after the first few shots. The full mantled or metal cased bullet ammuni-
exceedingly clean-shooting.
tion
Several
has been adopted for military and naval
by a number of foreign countries. Elaborate tests of ammunition loaded with such bullets have also been made in this country. service
The metal tages
in
cased bullet has undoubted advan-
rifle
ammunition,
in
which low
tra-
The
52
Pistol
and Revolver
jectory and extreme long range are desiderata
by high velocities. magazine pistols and re-
that can be obtained only
In
ammunition
for
volvers, however, the prime object
is
to deliver
the most effective blow possible at comparatively short range.
The
attainable
velocities
large
in
calibres
within the permissible weight of an automatic pistol are
of
any
comparatively low.
bullet
on striking animal tissue
direct proportion fore,
The deformation
to
is
in
is,
there-
extremely doubtful that a metal
cased
velocity.
ever prove as
bullet will
'*
factory in service,
its
It
effective
and
satis-
stopping power'' and for military
either in the automatic
pistol
or the
revolver, as the large calibre lead bullet
The metal
cased bullet ammunition for the
automatic pistols
now on
trial in
the U. S.
Army
and .45 cal. The .38-cal. arms and ammunition were issued in 1903, and the .45-cal. is
in
of .38-cal.
1907.
In the latter the metal cased bullet
weighs 250 grains. As neither of these charges have the muzzle energy or stopping power of the .44-cal. Smith .45-cal. Colt,
be adopted.
it
is
& Wesson
Russian, or the
not probable that either will
Sights
53
Sights
The purpose of sights is The national organizations sights in pistol
or
aperture
"
"
to assist in aiming.
"open"
allow only
and revolver shooting.
sights are barred.
The
"
"
rear sight
usually consists of a notch shaped like a U, the
Peep
V
or a
notch being as wide on top as at any part.
k
k End
Side view.
view.
Side view.
End
view.
Front Sights.
Rear
sight.
Appearance when aiming. Military Sights.
Fig. 37.
The
front sight
edge.
it
a piece of thin metal set on
Sometimes the
or section at
is
latter
has a special shape
resembling a pinhead when looking
from the breech, as
in
aiming.
Military
sights usually consist of a plain notch in the top of the
frame for the rear sight and a tapering
front sight fixed to the barrel near the muzzle.
The
54
and Revolver
Pistol
Target sights are made
The
suit individual ideas.
in endless variety to
used for target-shooting are the
named
after
most generally
sights "
Paine
who
Chevalier Ira Paine,
"
sights,
invented
1 Rear
End
Side view.
sight.
Front
Appearance
view.
when
sight.
aiming.
" Paine " Sights.
Fig. 38.
and was the is
a
flat
first
The
to use them.
rear sight
bar with a semicircular notch, and the
front sight
is
a
"
bead
"
sight
;
that
when aiming. that many of the
is,
a sight that
resembles a pinhead
Another sight using
is
the
''
Patridge
" sight,
End
Side view.
Rear
sight.
Front
best shots are
developed by Mr.
Appearance
view.
when
sight.
aiming.
Patridge Sights. Fig. 39.
E. E. Patridge of Boston, Mass.
has a wide rectangular notch
;
The
rear sight
the front sight
plain with a square top, as shown.
is
Position
These sights have been in which they are most
55
referred to in the order
necessary for individuals
used. to
It
generally
is
try various
sights
before they are able to select intelligently.
In
target
arms different-shaped sights may be used
in the
same base or
paratively easy matter sights
so that
fitting,
to try
it
any or
a com-
is
all
of these
on the same arm.
The notch bevelled
the
of
rear
edge concave toward the sharpness
have a
sight should
any
will
secure
The
front sight should also be distinct
found to
be
most
toward the eye
is
of
outline
satisfactory
This
front.
in
when
light.
and
the
is
side
a surface at right angles to the
line of sight.
Position
The
position in pistol and revolver shooting
is
In firing a long series of shots,
very important.
man with an easy, natural position will suffer much less fatigue, and will have a decided advan-
a
tage over another
uncomfortable.
was
whose position
is
straining and
Formerly the approved position
to stand with the right side
toward the
target.
This required the head to be turned ninety degrees from
its
natural
position,
and was very
The
56
Undoubtedly
uncomfortable. relic
and Revolver
Pistol
this
position
is
a
when it might have been mark was offered to the
of duelling days,
argued that a smaller antagonist.
The
positions adopted by the leading shots vary
Most
considerably. left
of
the
target,
inches ahead of
toward the
them
of
face a trifle to the
with the
the
left,
right
foot 6
or 8
and pointing directly
weight of the body sup-
target, the
ported equally by both legs and perfectly balanced.
Others shoot with the feet close together; some with one or both eyes open, and with the arm
The
partly or fully extended. tion depends largely
question of posi-
upon the physique and com-
fort of the individual.
Mr. Winans' position one.
His poise
firmly on both
down along
affords rigidity
an exceedingly strong
very good, and
is
The
feet..
the
is
left
when
side
left
arm
straight
falls
This
the body.
of
desired,
he stands
and imparts action
to the figure.
Mr.
Axtell
has
a
stanch,
natural
position.
Like Mr. Winans, he shoots with the right arm fully extended,
and he holds the weapon
in the
correct and most approved manner.
The
position of Mr.
Anderton
is
excellent.
He
d
W
G O s
U CO
<1
o
H
Cm
d
I
I
d
6
o
O
o
6i
Target Shooting
enjoys perfect health, and has his large muscular
His position
development well under control. position
He
Richmond.
that of Mr.
is
Another good
and comfortable.
strong, natural,
is
not as
is
well poised as Mr. Anderton, but his position
is
graceful and businesslike.
The
positions of Mr.
Patridge and Sergeant
Petty are characteristic and typical of persons of entirely different physique.
Mr. Gorman and Dr. Sayre are similar physique.
men
of ver)^
Their positions, which resemble
each other closely, are firm, easy, and natural.
Target-shooting
ammuni-
In the development of firearms and tion, target-shooting
has always occupied an im-
portant place.
It is
regularly and systematically
practised in the
army and navy,
tain
in order to
and improve the proficiency
marksmen. styles
of
of the
many
Target-shooting, with firearms,
main-
men
as
different
under prescribed rules and
become extremely popular
regulations, has also
with civilians.
A
target
is
a
mark
and color designed
to
or object of suitable form
be fired
at.
It
usually
consists of a frame covered with canvas or paper,
The
62
and Revolver
Pistol
presenting a white surface with a prominent spot or
bulFs-eye
in
Concentric circles
the centre.
around the centre divide the target into zones
which are assigned values, decreasing from the centre outward.
On
a regularly equipped range
the targets are movable frames, so arranged that
they
may be
raised to the firing position
lowered into a
examine the
pit,
target,
and then
where the marker can
mark the shot
cover the shot-hole with a paster.
safely
accurately,
and
The sum
of
the values of a limited series of consecutive shots, as
5, 7,
lo, 20, 50, etc.,
constitutes a score.
Target-shooting was
with the
rifle
many
indulged in extensively
years before
wath the pistol and revolver.
and the greater
it
became popular
The
shorter barrel,
difficulty in acquiring skill
with
the latter weapons, were doubtless responsible for the mistaken idea long prevalent that these arms
When, however,
were extremely inaccurate.
few individuals developed sufficient fine shooting, their
skill to
a
obtain
performances were considered
phenomenal.
Among
order of
with the muzzle-loading pistol in
skill
the
first
the United States was Captain Missouri.
He was
well
pistol shot as early as
to obtain a high
John Travers
known
i860.
as
an
of
expert
In that year Cap-
Target Shooting
an interesting individual match
tain Travers shot in St.
Louis
63
at a distance of
100
Fifteen
feet.
china plates, nine inches in diameter, were used
Captain Travers broke
as targets. 15,
while his opponent broke but
In 1865 Colonel William F.
and Captain William
became prominent
9.
Cody
Schaaf
P.
out of the
1 1
(Buffalo Bill) St.
Louis
The
latter
of
as pistol shots.
subsequently joined Captain Travers in a three years' tour of the in
nearly
all
United States, giving exhibitions
the large
About 1880
Anson
Ira
Massachusetts,
cities.
attracted
marksmanship with the abroad, and for a
Paijie,
attention
pistol.
number
a
by
native his
of
fine
In 1881 he went
of years
he travelled
over the principal countries of Europe, giving public exhibitions of his skill with the pistol and revolver.
While
in
Portugal
in
1882 he was
knighted by the king in the presence of a notable assemblage, and military order.
made
a chevalier of an ancient
In his exhibitions Chevalier Paine
used a Stevens Lord Model pistol and a Smith
Wesson
revolver.
His
skill
&
with these arms was
so far in advance of his contemporaries that he
was popularly supposed his feats
by
trickery.
to
accomplish
many
of
The
64
and Revolver
Pistol
Target-shooting with the pistol and revolver, as a sport,
may be
said to have originated at the
annual meeting of the National Rifle Association
Creedmoor in 1886. During that meeting a revolver match w^as scheduled to be shot at 25
at
on
yd.
the
Target.
Standard American
200-yd.
Rifle
was a reentry match, with the three
It
best scores of five shots each of any contestant to count. of
In this match three scores of 48 out
50 were made, the highest individual aggregate
of three scores
The same at the
fall
year a similar match was announced
meeting
Association at
was 49
being 143 out of a possible 150. Massachusetts Rifle
the
of
Walnut
Chevalier Paine
Hill.
a competitor in this match,
=
148 in six entries.
The
and made 50-49next best three
scores equalled 142.
These matches proved so interesting and
suc-
that target-shooting with the pistol
and
cessful
became instantly popular all over the country. It was soon found that the arms posrevolver
sessed remarkable accuracy, and as the
skill
of
the shooters improved the distance was increased to 50 yd., retaining the
same
Mr. A. C. Gould, editor
target. of
Shooting a7id Fishing, was the
The first
Rifle,
and
to recognize
Target Sbooiing
65
and
the possibilities of the pistol
and
revolver,
became greatly interested
the
performances
He
with these arms. the
shooters,
in
witnessed
scores that were
1886 to
1900/
made It
of all the
Smith
Model Revolver, regulation and a 2^
lb.
first
lOO-shot
American Target,
This shooting was done with
a finely sighted .44 cal.
tion,
the
fire
score at 50 yd. on the Standard
scoring 791 points.
suggestion that
his
at
Chevalier Paine essaved to
important
United States from
in the
was
and made
work,
their
and elaborate records
careful
and encouraged
assisted
& Wesson
charge ammuni-
full
A
trigger pull.
Russian
keen rivalry for
the lOO-shot record soon sprang up, resulting as follows Oct.
:
15, 1886,
March Nov. Nov. Dec.
—
7,
Chevalier Ira Paine at Walnut Hill
1887, Chevalier Ira Paine
"•'
*•
"
''
791
'^
841
"
857
"
877 886
4, 1887, F.
E. Bennett
14, 1887, F.
E. Bennett
"
'•
1887, F. E. Bennett
"
"
Chevalier Ira Paine "
'•
888
''
904
5,
Dec.
17, 1887,
Dec.
22, 1887. Chevalier Ira
Dec.
23, 1887,
W.
Paine
''
9U
V^. Bennett
This rivalry led to a long newspaper contro versy,
and
culminated
Bennett revolver match. ^
See The
Modem
American
the
in
Pistol
The and
Bradlee Whidden, Publisher, Boston, Mass.
famous
Paine-
conditions were
Revolver, by A. C. Gould.
66
The
Pistol
and Revolver 100 shots per day
as follows: Stakes, $1000.00;
days
for six consecutive
& Wesson
Smith
;
Rus-
Model Revolvers, 44 cal. factory-loaded full charge ammunition trigger pull, 3 lb. Standard sian
;
;
;
American Target with
On
50 yd.
the
fifth
8-in.
day
bull's-eye
of the match,
distance,
;
and while
9 points in the lead, Chevalier Paine entered a protest and withdrew.
Mr. Y. E. Bennett con-
tinued shooting, as stipulated in the match, scor-
ing 5093 points for the total of the six days. protest
was referred
ciation,
which decided
The
to the National Rifle Assoin favor of
Mr. Bennett,
awarding him the match and the championship of
America. In practising for this match Mr. F. E. Bennett,
under the same conditions, made a score This record
when
C.
S.
w^as not excelled until
Richmond
of
June
of 915. i,
1901,
Savannah, Georgia,
scored 918 points under substantially the same conditions.
During the summer Carlin, assisted
of
1890 Mr. William E.
by Mr. Hubert Reynolds, made a
very elaborate series of tests with the revolver
and various kinds
of
ammunition.
w^as
done with a telescopic
bag
rest.
The
sight,
results obtained
The shooting
and from a sandwere remarkable,
Target Shooting
and added materially
67
to the definite information
then available as to the capabilities of the revolver, the relative accuracy of different charges, etc.
A
very interesting revolver match for a trophy
Winans took noted American
offered by Mr. Walter
place in 1892.
Mr. Winans
revolver shot,
a
is
— an Ameribronze — was
residing in England, and the trophy
can cowboy executed admirably in
The match was conducted by and Stream. The trophy w^as won, after
modelled by Forest
him,.
a spirited competition,
by Dr. Louis
Bell.
Under
the conditions of the match, the winner w^as to
two years before
defend
his
became
his propert}^
title
the
trophy
The trophy was won
suc-
George E. Jantzer and Sergeant W.
cessively by
Sergeant Petty defended the trophy
E. Petty. successfully
two
for
years,
and now holds
it
permanently.
The
"
''
best .on record
single-shot
pistol,
Target, at 50 100 shots
yd.,
on
performances with the
Standard American
the
are as follows:
—
:
Walnut
Mass.
906
E. Bennett,
'^
'*
"
Sept. 10, 1890, F. E. Bennett,
"
"
"
934 936
Sept. 22, 1888, F. E. Bennett,
Nov.
10, 1888, F.
Feb. 25, 1900,
May
J.
E. Gorman, San Francisco, Cal.
26, 1901, J. E.
March
i,
Hill,
Gorman,
1902, E. E. Patridge,
'-
Walnut
'•
Hill,
'•
Mass.
939 942 942
The
68 50 shots
Pistol
and Revolver
:
Nov.
10, 1888, F.
E. Bennett, Walnut Hill, Mass.
470
Feb.
II, 1900, J.
E. Gorman, San Francisco, Cal.
471
May
20,
Dec.
7,
1901, T. Anderton,
April
4,
1903, T. Anderton,
A
1
90 1,
J.
E. Gorman,
record, or "best
'*
"
'*
Walnut
Hill,
Mass.
'*
"
^'
on record,"
recognized score of any given
is
474 476 480
.
the highest
number
of shots
under certain standard conditions, and with
fired
an arm complying with certain estabhshed rules.
The
records of pistol and revolver shooting in the
United States were carefully established and compiled by
1900,
Shootijig
when
and
the records were
intrusted
United States Revolver Association. ciation,
the year
Fishi7ig until
the
to
This asso-
with the support and cooperation of
all
the leading shots of the country, formulated rules
and regulations to govern
pistol
and revolver
shooting, and inaugurated the annual championship matches.
These
different parts of the
are shot simultaneously in
United States, thus giving
everybody an opportunity to enter the competitions.
The
influence
of
the association
and revolver shooting has been very It
has established uniformity
in
on
pistol
beneficial.
arms, rules,
and has encouraged and conducted many
etc.,
friendly
Target Shooting
matches between
69
clubs, thus bringing the shots in
different parts of the country in closer touch with
This association also negotiated and
each other.
conducted the
first
international revolver
match which
between France and the United States, This match attracted took place in June, 1900. world-wide attention, and was
The conditions of Ten men on a side
States.
follows
:
shoot at in
Greenville, N.
J.,
won by
the ;
match were as
the
Americans
to
Frenchmen Each side to
and the
Results to be cabled.
Paris.
the United
appoint an umpire to witness the shooting of the -
opposing
side.
Each man
the French target at
the Standard
6000.
:
on
16 metres and 30 shots on
American
Total scores
to shoot 30 shots
target at 50 yd.
Americans, 4889
Possible, ;
French,
4828.
A second
match between France and the United States was arraneed in The conditions were briefly as follows: 1903. Fifteen men on a side. Each man to shoot 60 international revolver
shots in 10 strings of 6 shots each on the Stand-
ard American Target at 50 yd.
Each
side to
appoint two umpires to witness the shooting of their opponents.
Results to be cabled.
The American marksmen assembled
at
the
The
/o
Walnut
and Revolver
Pistol
Hill range of the Massachusetts Rifle
Association, near Boston, devoting three days
preliminary practice shooting and selecting
to
was originally agreed upon that the match was to take place on June 30th, and the American team shot their scores on that the team.
day.
It
Owing
delays in transportation, the
to
targets intended for the French
team did not reach them promptly and their side of the match was shot several days later. The members constituting the teams and their respective scores are as follows
:
AMERICAN TEAM. 0.
I.
R. J.
S.
New
Jr.,
554
York, N.
Hale, Boston,
A. Dietz,
W.
Minn
Olson, Duluth,
B. F. Vender,
Y
543 540
Mass
New
York, N.
Y
534
A. Smith, Spring-field, Mass
C. S. Axtell, Springfield,
Louis
Bell,
532
Mass
530
Boston, Mass
T. Anderton, Boston,
527
Mass
.
523
J.
B. Crabtree, Springfield,
Mass
519
1.
R. Calkins, Springfield, Mass.
519
E. E. Patridge, Boston,
R. H. Sayre, J.
T.
W.
S.
C. L.
New
Mass
York, N. Y. (Score shot
Humphrey, Boston, Mass Amory, 2d, Boston, Mass Bouve, Boston, Mass
Team
total
517 in Paris).
515
513 512 511
7,889
Target Shooting
71
FRENCH TEAM. Comte de
Castelbajac, Libourne
Commandant
Py, Saint
547
Omer
542
M. Dutfoy, Marseilles
541
Captain Moreaux, Rennes
529 526
M. Moline-Paget, Dieppe Captain Chauchat, Versailles
524
Keller-Dorian, Lyons
522
Feugray, Paris
509
Despassio, Lyons
503
M. M. M. M. M. M. M.
Lecocq, Paris Caurette,
502
Ham
502
Louvier, Paris
Balme, Paris Adjutant Paroche, Rennes
M.
Sartori, Paris
Team
Americans
A
....
total
496 469 466 462 7,640
:
led by
249
careful analysis of the scores
the Americans shot
shows that
much more evenly than
the
Frenchmen, and that the skill of the three high men on both teams was approximately equal. In order to
become
develop
skill in
practice
is
iently
At
and
familiar with the
shooting, careful and systematic
necessary.
This can be most conven-
intelligently obtained in target-shooting.
a properly equipped range, each shot
ted "^ as fired, so that the shooter
where each shot 1
The
arms and
strikes.
This
can
is
tell
is "
spot-
instantly
a great aid and
position of a shot accurately indicated by a marker from a pit or
safe place near the target.
The
72
advantage, as effect of
ments
Pistol
enables the shooter to note the
it
changes
in
The
and modify
etc.,
usual distance
good shooting has been done at
200
yd.,
sHght displace-
in hght, wind,
the sights,
accordingly.
and Revolver
at
is
100
his
50 yd. yd.,
work Very
and even
but such long-range shooting
is
rarely
The
attempted except by the very best shots.
whole target being so small
at
that distance, a
shot need not be very wild to miss the target.
Such an occurrence
very unsatisfactory and
is
disconcerting to a fairly skilful shot.
moreover,
nothing
long-range work.
designed for
it,
and satisfaction It is
to
The
be gained pistol
and there
is
There
is,
by extremely
and revolver are not
much more
pleasure
in shootins: at the shorter ranoes.
customary and desirable to practise
at the
target under the conditions governing the annual
championship matches. those conditions, and
is
This accustoms one to a decided advantage
expects to enter the competitions. cellent training for
It is
record shooting.
if
one
also ex-
In target
practice with military arms, regulation full-charge
ammunition should be used
when
in all cases, especially
practising rapid-fire shooting.
With
target
weapons, reduced charges are frequently used, and the shooting
is
generally slow and deliberate,
Tjrgtt Shooting
The
'j^
used bv the United States armv for
taro-et
revolver practice
is
man
the regulation silhouette
target.
This consists of the figure
and
is
man
of a
standing,
used for both mounted and dismounted
For the mounted practice the target
practice.
consists of a steel skeleton frame, covered with cloth
and black paper, and
is
held in position by
supporting rods and braces.
This
is
designated
Target D."
Five of these targets are set up
at a distance of
lo yd. and 20 yd. apart, and the
troopers ride by
them on the walk,
"
as
one shot
lop, firing
This practice
at
5 yd.
left,
and
at
^'
respectively,
Ten
Target
K
''
gal-
modified by changing the position
is
rear.
and
each target as they pass.
of the targets so the position will
and
trot,
be
and shooting
shots per
— the silhouette
man
25, 20, 15, 10,
to the right,
are also fired
figure of a
mounted
soldier.
All revolver target practice consists of two classes,
''Preliminary" and "Record," the latter
being incorporated
in
the ofiicial reports.
shots constitute a score. the
dismounted
''A I," consisting
4
ft.
practice
Five
The target used for is known as target
of a rectangle
wide, with a circular black
6
ft.
high and
l)i]irs-e\'e
and
-
The
74
Pistol
and Revolver
seven concentric rings, with values and diam eters as follows
9 ring, 8^
in.
6 ring, 19
in.
3 ring,
The
46 '*
in.
:
5
ring,
Prelirninary
scores slow
fire
in.
7
;
22^^ in.
;
in.
i^\
in.
4 ring, 26
in.
ring,
rectangle, rest of target.
2
;
12
8 ring,
;
;
Bull's-eye or lo ring, 5
practice consists of two
''
with a time limit of 30
sec.
per
shot at each of the ranges 50 yd. and 75 yd. two scores timed fire with a time limit of 30 sec.
;
per score, 25 yd. and 50 yd. and two scores rapid fire with a time limit of 10 sec. per score ;
at
each of the ranges 15 yd. and 25 yd. The ''Record'' practice, or competition pro-
per,
is
the same as the ''Preliminary" practice
except that the course will be fired through twice, the total
number
range for each class of
The
of scores being at each
fire,
four, instead of two.
order of sequence of the classes of
(slow,
timed,
ofificer in
or
rapid)
is
fire
determined by the
charge of the competition, and so as
to secure as nearly as possible equal conditions of firing for
all
competitors.
In firing scores
within a specified time limit the range officer gives the
command
commands, "
"
Ready,"
'*
Fire."
Ready," the competitor
At the
at the firing
point raises his piece into position and begins
Target Shooting immediately after the
to fire
Gold,
silver,
command
''Fire."
and bronze medals are awarded
making the highest
to those
75
The
scores.
regu-
lations provide for annual competitions in each
department, and
each even-numbered year a
in
competition between representatives of
all
the
departments.
The
revolver practice in the U. S.
two
sists of
Navy
designated the Marksman's
classes,
Each
Course and the Sharpshooter's Course. course
is
con-
subdivided into ''Instruction Practice"
and "Record Practice." All shooting is done on target "A," which is a rectangle 6 ft. high by 4 ft. wide, with a circular black bull's-eye 8 in. in diameter, counting 5, and concentric follows
:
of
circles
4 ring, 26
count with diameters as
in.
;
3 ring,
46
2
rect-
make 80 per
cent,
in.
;
angle, rest of target.
The men
are required to
of the possible in the
marksman's course before
they can proceed on the sharpshooter's course.
Marksman's Course (slow Instruction Practice
At
least
yd., 25 yd.,
I
fire).
:
string of 6 shots, each range: 15
50 yd.
;
no time
limit.
The
76
Record Practice At least string50 yd.
time
;
limit, 5
min.
Sharpshooter's Course (rapid Instruction Practice
limit,
25
;
yd
50 yd.;'
;
18 sec.
Record Practice
:
6 shots, each range
time
fire).
:
6 shots, each range: 15 yd.
time
range: 15
of 6 shots, each
I
yd., 25 yd.,
and Revolver
Pistol
:
15 yd.
;
25 yd.
;
50 yd.
;
limit, 18 sees.
In the rapid
fire
practice the timing
is
done
by having the target appear and disappear, maining
in position for firing 18
re-
seconds.
In addition to the above regulation practice,
the
men
are put through a thorough prelimin-
ary course of position, sighting and aiming
The more tice
in snap,
expert
men
drill.
are given advanced prac-
double-action and left-hand shoot-
ing, also firing alternately at targets at different
distances
and
at
floating objects at
unknown
distances.
The Guard
revolver course adopted by the National in
1907
is
divided into three classes, as
Marksman, Sharpshooter and Expert, using target "A" (the same as used in the U. S.
follows
Navy).
:
Target Shooting
Course
marksman and
as
qualification
for
77
sharpshooter Distances, 15 yards:
each score of 25 yards
scores,
2
:
rapid
fire,
10 seconds to
timed
30 seconds to
fire,
shots.
5
scores, slow
2
:
10 seconds to
5 shots.
each score of 50 yards
scores,
2
fire,
shots.
5
25 yards:
and 50 yards.
scores, rapid
2
each score of
15, 25,
fire,
minute
i
to each
shot, 5 shots to each score.
Necessary
for
qualification
marksman
as
:
Sixty-five per cent, of possible score, or 130 out of
Necessary for qualification as
200 points.
sharpshooter
Eighty
:
per
of
cent,
possible
score, or 160 out of 200 points.
Course for qualification as expert (open sharpshooters only) Distances, 15 yards:
each score of 25 yards
15, 25, 50,
and 75 yards.
rapid
fire,
8
seconds to
scores, rapid
fire,
8
seconds to
5 shots. 2
:
each score of 25 yards:
:
scores,
2
to
2
each score of
5
shots.
scores, timed 5
shots.
fire,
20 seconds to
The
78
50 yards
2
:
each score of 75 yards
each shot,
5
scores,
and Revolver timed
20 seconds to
fire,
shots.
5
2
:
Pistol
scores, slow
20 seconds to
fire,
shots to each score.
Necessary for qualification as expert
:
Eighty
per cent, of possible score, or 200 out of 250 points.
— Standard American Target.
Fig. 49.
Diameter of Circles 10 circle
.
.
3.36 inches
9
"
.
.
5.54
8
"
.
.
8.00
7
"
.
"
\
"J
\
!
Bull's-eye
•
6 circle
.
"
.
.
19.68
"
4
"
.
.
26.00
"
I
.
11.00
" I
Rest of target, 28
X
14.80 inches
.
5
28 inches.
Target Shooting
The
79
conditions of the Annual Championship
Matches of the United States Revolver Association are excellent, and well adapted to stimu* late improvement in the arms and develop the highest order of marksmanship. These matches are described in detail in the appendix.
The
official
target of the United States Revolver
Association, which
is
used in the annual cham-
pionship matches and for record shooting,
Standard American Target. used by nearly izations in the
the bull's-eye 8, 9,
and 10
all
This target
8
is
also
the shooting clubs and organ-
For 50-yd. shooting
United States. is
the
is
in. in
rings.
diameter and contains the
This target
target practice at this range.
Ten
extensively since 1886.
well suited for
is
It
has been used
shots, with
one hun-
dred for the possible, usually constitute a score.
For gallery shooting so
at
that the bull's-eye
and
for
20 yd. this target
2^-^
is
lo-yd. shooting
i
in.
in
in.
is
reduced
in diameter,
diameter.
In
indoor shooting smokeless powder and reduced
charges are always to be preferred. ficial
ventilation
is
provided,
Where
arti-
some shooting may
be done with black powder ammunition, but the
range soon indistinct
fills
with smoke, rendering the targets
and the atmosphere unpleasant.
Gal-
The
8o lery practice
and Revolver
Pistol
very valuable, as
is
preserve
good form
localities
where
it is
in
enables one to
winter months,
the
in
too cold to shoot with com-
An arm
and pleasure out-of-doors.
fort
it
of large
caliber has a decided advantage over one of small caliber in short-range shooting, on account of the
larger hole
made by
the bullet, and, for this reason,
the large calibers are preferred for gallery shoot-
For distances
ing.
than 25 yd. not more than
less
shots should be fired on a paper or card-
five
In case a close group
board target.
scoring will be
much
is
made, the
and more accurate
easier
than
when
The
best grades of target arms, including
ten shots are fired at a single target.
illustrated in this chapter, are capable of "
possibles
American
To make
target,
for
great
many other
different times
men.
is
on the part
rifle-shooting
Some
scores
is
making
ammunition.
therefore simply a quesof the shooter.
targets designed principally
have
been
recommended
by well-known and
scientific
of these targets possess
and have become popular It
those
on the standard
using regulation
high scores
tion of skill
A
or perfect
"
all
in
at
marks-
much
merit
certain localities.
unquestionably a mistake to introduce new
targets in
this
manner
as
long as satisfactory
8i
Target Shooting
and on which
targets are in general use,
all
the
important matches and records have been shot.
The
new
merit of a score on a
judged by those unfamiliar with a
highly
meritorious score
recognition
it
target cannot be it,
fails
and frequently to receive
the
deserves on account of having been
shot on a comparatively
unknown
target.
In selecting a target for longer ranges than
50 yards
it
always preferable to have the
is
bull's-eye sufficiently large so as to be seen with
when
ease and comfort
eyes strain and
Small
sio^hting-.
bull's-
the eyes and have no ad-
tire
vantage whateven In England and France the targets generally
have smaller shooting
on a
is
bull's-eyes
the bull's-eye
have
bull's-eye.
Bisley, the
principally at a distance of 20 yards
bull's-eye
targets
At
than here.
is
2
in.
in diameter.
4
in.
in diameter.
no
The
circles
of
count
At 50 yards The English within
the
regulation targets of the United
Shooting Societies
and 6 centimetres
France have
of in
bull's-eyes 5
diameter for the
pistol
and
revolver respectively, at 20 metres, and 20 centi-.
metres in diameter for
50-metre shooting.
these taro^ets have two or
within the bulls-eve.
more
circles of
All
count
The
82
Pistol
and Revolver
Revolver Practice for the Police
The ment
revolver
is
a part of the regular equip-
of the police force of nearly every city in
this country.
Unfortunately, the general lack
any regulations for the care of and practice with these arms largely nullifies their usefulness. of
Even
in the large cities,
members
of the police
force frequently admit that they have not used
or cleaned their arms for six months, or more.
An
inspection of the arms under such conditions
not infrequently reveals the fact that center-fire
arms are loaded with rim-fire ammunition, and The mechanism is often so badly vice-versa. rusted that the cylinder will not revolve and the barrel
so corroded
When
accuracy.
as to seriously impair
its
occasion requires the use of
the arms under such conditions, accidents almost
who
invariably result, either to the policemen
attempt to
fire
the arms, or to innocent
by-
standers and property.
The
records of every large municipality
that large
sums are annually disbursed
show
in litiga-
and to individuals who have suffered either personal wounds or property damage from acci-
tion
dents of this character.
Revolver Practice for the Police
By adopting
suitable arms,
and regulations
governing practice shooting with them, tirely practicable
83
it is
and comparatively easy to
a large police force to
en-
train
become good marksmen.
The possibility of accidents is thus reduced to a minimum and the efficiency of the men increased to a maximum. The moral effect of a high order of marksmanship of an entire police force,
when generally known,
cannot
be
over-esti-
Practice and skill in the use of the
mated.
revolver embodies the essential elements of shooting, so that in case of
insurrection, or
riot,
war, a large police force could be available
for
instruction,
A
duty with very
rifle
made
little
by arming them with
quickly
additional
rifles.
practical plan to develop such results
is
as
The services of a competent person to This man teach the men must first be secured. should be an experienced and skilful marksman follows
:
with the revolver and be qualified to maintain
proper discipline and teach the subject details.
vided.
A
suitable
Two men
for their fitness
in all its
range must next be pro-
from each precinct selected
to
become
instructors should
then be detailed to take a prescribed course of training and practice under the teacher referred
The
84
Each
to.
and Revolver
Pistol
men should devote
of these
not less
than four hours a week to this course.
men should be
months' time these
In four
qualified to
undertake the work of training and instructing others under the inspection and supervision of
After providing sufficient
the original teacher.
range
facilities,
men from each
squads of
cinct should then
pre-
be detailed for practice and
own instructors, devoting at least two hours per man per week to this work. At least one and one-half hours of this instruction under their
time should be devoted to actual practice shoot-
After sufficient
ing.
has been developed,
skill
teams of the different precincts should shoot
matches with each other, which friendly rivalry
will
keep up a
and promote interest
in
their
work.
By adopting such a year from
its
a plan
it
good
enable
man
all
ability
of
;
them
/.
e.,
such
every time at lOO
during off-duty time
successful.
and
reliable shots
ability
as
would
to hit an object the size of a feet.
sometimes made of requiring tice
possible, within
inception, to convert an entire
police force into perfectly safe of
is
;
this
The mistake is the men to prachas never proved
Revolver Practice for the Police
After the
first
85
year, or after a sufficient degree
been developed, the efficiency of the men can be preserved and maintained by devoting an hour every two weeks to regulation pracof skill has
There is little doubt but that the cost of the time and ammunition devoted to such a course of training would be more than offset by tice.
the elimination of a large portion of the accidents,
litigation,
etc.,
that
result
under the
present conditions.
Much
of the efficiency that
it
is
possible to
depends upon the character of the regu-
attain
arm that may be adopted for service. Such an arm should be of large lation
and
police calibre
sufficient powder to fulfil the requirements.
When
carried in the pocket the perspiration of
body causes rust, and a nickel finish will generally be more serviceable than any other. The sights, hammers and other projections the
should be of suitable form, and as referred to in
the text under " Pocket Arms."
In order to
secure suitable accuracy, the barrel should be
4
in.
length and the trigger pull 4
in
first-class cal.
weapon
Smith
.38-cal.
for police service
& Wesson
Colt
New
is
lbs.
the .38-
safety hammerless,
Police,
or the .32
A
cal.
the side
The
86
Pistol
and Revolver
swing action Smith & Wesson or Colt revolvers. The .38-cal. Smith & Wesson safety hammerless particularly well
is
adapted for police service,
making accidental discharge almost impossible, and being also a decided advantage in case the weapon should fall into the safety feature
the hands of an unskilled antagonist. In
all
cases a regulation
arm and ammunition
should be adopted so as to secure uniformity
and involve the purchase of only one supplies and ammunition.
line
of
Pistol Shooting for Ladies
The
great majority of ladies have some inher-
ent dread of
no doubt
is
all
This
varieties of fire arms.
largely due to the senseless and
inexperienced persons to
irresistible
desire of
indulge
in
a mock-heroic
of such
arms when
display and flourish
in the
presence of
ladies.
All useless demonstration and ostentation with fire
arms serves only to distinguish those who
are unfamiliar with their
and
use.
proper manipulation
Persons handling arms
in this
manner
should be avoided, or promptly compelled to desist.
Many
of the
accidents of the
""
I
did
Pistol Shooting
know
not
was loaded
it
for Ladies
87
order occur
"
in
this
manner.
There
is
nothing occult or mysteriously dan-
gerous about
fire
arms, but their potential power
must never be forgotten
weapon
a
of
As
handling them.
in
defense the revolver places the
weakest and most diminutive person skilled its
use,
on an equality with the most powerful Ladies
antagonist. visit
in
who
semi-civilized
travel extensively
countries,
and
especially
the
wives and daughters of army and navy officers assigned to
foreign
oughly familiar with
stations, fire
should be thor-
arms and
skilled in
their use.
The
shoot, like
knowing how to swim, may occur a woman's lifetime, but when occa-
but once in
necessity of
sion does require either,
circumstances
it
is
knowing how
to
generally under
involving peril to
that reason both are advantageous
life,
and
for
and valuable
Every woman should, therefore, be sufficiently familiar with fire arms to know how to handle them safely, and, in an emergency, to use them with intelligence. While skill in the use of the pistol and revolver accomplishments.
is
a useful accomplishment, the practice shoot-
ing with these arms will prove exceedingly in-
and Revolver
88
The
teresting.
Target practice with the
tol
Pistol
suited for
particularly well
is
those
who have had
in
have invariably found
it,
fascinating pastime. to believe that ladies
.22-cal. pis-
and
ladies,
the opportunity to indulge it
an enjoyable and
There is every reason, too, would excel and develop
a higher order of skill in pistol shooting than
gentlemen,
because they
are
generally
more
temperate and possess a more delicate nervous system.
A
number
of
shooting clubs
civilian
have
successful ladies' auxiliary clubs, and there are
time a large number of ladies
the present
at
who
are skillful
markswomen with
the pistol and
revolver.
Any text
of the target pistols referred to in the
under the subject of Arms (except the
Remington
pistol,
which
is
are suitable for ladies' use.
a very heavy piece)
A
very serviceable
handsome combination is furnished by Smith & Wesson, which consists of their regu-
and
lar target pistol
interchangeable
and an revolver barrel and cylin-
with a
.38-cal.
lo-inch barrel
These are
der, fitting to the
same
nished
case with cleaning rods,
in a special
making a complete and
stock.
attractive outfit.
furetc.,
Sg
Pistol Shooting for Ladies It
well
is
to
begin practice with
pistol, as this is a light
to
shoot,
duced skill
to
.22-cal.
and very pleasant charge
and the tendency to "flinch" is reAfter a fair degree of a minimum.
has been developed with the
Combination
a
Set.
— Smith
& Wesson
.38-Cal.
.22-cal. pistol,
Revolver,
.22-Cal.
may be
tried,
Pistol, Utensils, etc., in Case.
reduced charges with a revolver
and from progress
this stage the
practice shooting can
to the regulation full charges.
desirable that ladies should have a tice
be able to
is
prac-
ammunimanipulate them with
with the revolver with
tion, so as to
little
It
full
charo-ed
sufficient skill in case of necessitv.
The
90
Pistol
and Revolver
Glubs and Ranges^
Whenever three or more persons are interested in
in
any
locality
or revolver shooting, a club
rifle
can generally be organized and additional bers secured.
mem-
the business affairs are prop-
If
erly
and conservatively managed, much pleasure
will
result for the
members
at a
nominal
cost.
Approximate ideas of the cost of constructing and maintaining ranges and indoor galleries'' can generally be obtained by communicating ''
In preparing
with the officers of existing clubs.
the Constitution and By-Laws, that of the U. S.
Revolver Association
The
will
be an excellent guide.
secretary-treasurer of that association will
be able to give valuable assistance to new clubs.
The
first
at a
A
range.
suitable pistol
requisite of a shooting club
range adapted for
At
comparatively small expense.
room
the targets.
A
3
ft.
wide, with openings facing
substantial
For a complete detailed description
illustrations, practical
Range
Company,
butt must be pro-
of range construction, including
working drawings,
Construction,
Rifle
the firing
or house should be provided with
booths at least
Rifle
a
and revolver practice can be constructed
point a
^
50-yard
is
published by
etc.,
The
the reader
E.
I,
is
referred to
du Pont Powder
Smokeless Division, Wilmington, Delaware.
Clubs and Ranges
91
vided behind the targets to stop the bullets,
This should be an
including the wildest shots.
earthen embankment, or inhabited
hill
may be
with a steep
a natural un-
slope
toward the
The range should be measured and
range.
laid
out by an engineer, or other competent person
A
using a steel tape.
pit at least
8^
ft.
deep
should be dug for the safe accommodation of the markers, and provided with a safely shielded side entrance.
The
uprights and other target
framing should set against the back side of
The width
pit.
of the
from the framing
pit
tow^ard the firing point should be 5
length should set
be made about
alternating
of
this
3-|^
The
targets.
and the
ft., ft.
for each
alternating
target frames to which the targets are to be
attached
may be
and should be
of at
wood covered with least
5
ft.
square.
canvas,
These
should be so arranged that they can easily be
moved up and down between in
grooves or
sash,
slides, like
and so as
of cords
''
to balance
the vertical posts
double hung'' window each other by means
running over pulleys located
in
the
posts at about the height of the bottom of the target
when
in
its
highest position, the cords
being attached to the lower corners of
the
The
92 frames.
Pistol
and Revolver
They should be adjusted
one target
is
fired at, the
Over each
bottom of the pit. alternating targets and attached
other
is
at the
to a cross piece at the top of the uprights
be placed large numbers from for
when
top and in position to be
at the
set of
so that
marking each
target.
3 to
A
should
10 inclusive,
roof
or shelter
should be erected so as to shade the target and
keep out the rain. Suitable timbers should be provided to protect the slides or grooves between the targets from damage by wild
shots.
Steel plates are sometimes placed a short dis-
tance behind the targets, slanting forward at the top, to positively stop the majority of the bullets,
but these must be far enough behind the targets that the spatter of the lead will not injure the
men
in the pit.
If possible,
have the targets so
located that they are due north of the firing point.
Such a range is operated as follows A marker is sent into the pit for each target to be operated paper targets having been pasted to the canvas on the frames a sufficient length of The marker time previously so as to be dry. pulls down one of the targets which raises the :
;
other into the firing position. shot
is fired,
As soon
the marker, using a
lo-ft.
as the
rod with
Details of Alternating Targets, Pit, etc., for 50- Yard
Range.
The
94 an iron disc
Pistol
2i-in. in
and Revolver
diameter fastened on the
end as a pointer, ''spots" the shot by placing the disc over the bullet hole, and then pointing to
one of the numbers over the target corres-
ponding
to the value of the shot.
The
disc
on
the pointer should have one side painted white so that
it
can be easily distinguished
when
cov-
ering shots in the bull's-eye.
The
scorer at the firing point then scores the
shot as indicated by the marker.
The marker
then raises the target at the bottom of the pit in position for the
down
next shot, which brings the
where the marker This covers the bullet hole with a paster. first
target
operation
is
into the pit
repeated for each shot.
Where a score of ten consecutive shots is to be made on each paper target, the target is fastened to the frame with double pointed carpet tacks and
shot score
left in is
the firing position until the ten
completed, each shot being ''spot-
ted,"
marked, and scored as
score
is
fired.
When
the
completed, another paper target having
been placed on the alternating frame the latter
is
in
the
pit,
raised in position promptly ready
for the next score.
In large cities
it is
often necessary to provide
The
96
Pistol
and Revolver
a suitable range for target shooting indoors and
by
Such a range
artificial light.
a ''gallery."
is
The standard range
designated 20 yd. for
is
the revolver and pistol, and 25 yd. for the
The arrangement the
cally
ranges,
On
same
the
at the firing point
as
in
the
case
of
booths being at least
rifie.
is
practi-
the
50-yd.
3
ft.
wide.
account of the small size of the target and
the
short distance,
it
is
feasible to
move
the
target -back and forth from the firing point to
the
butt
by "trolleys" operated by a hand
wheel, the latter being located generally at the left
hand
The
side in the booth at the firing point.
"trolley" or carriage consists of a heavy
steel spring
clamp holding a cardboard target
(about 9 inches square) at the top edge of the target, the carriage being supported by a No. 8 or lo-gauge wire stretched from the firing point to the butt, at a level of line of fire.
to the
The supporting
wood-work
of eye-bolts,
the wires.
about
2
ft.
above the
wires are attached
at the firing point
by means
which also regulate the tension of The trolleys are operated back and
by an endless braided cord passing around angles over pulleys screwed to the wood work A of the booth, and around the hand wheel. forth
Clubs and Ranges steel plate with
from the
97
away
the lower part inclined
firing point
20 or 30 degrees
placed
is
about 12 inches back of the targets to stop the bullets and prevent them from gouging out the wall
woodwork
or
behind.
By
deflecting the
plates as described, the spatter of the lead
damage
directed downward, and thus prevents to the
woodwork around
A
the targets.
is
suita-
background behind the targets may be provided by white or light gray paint, or by a suit-
ble
able fabric.
the spatter of the bullets mars the targets, a shield of i-in. boards can be erected and maintained between the target and the steel If
plate.
The
lighting
may be accomplished by
of gas jets or electric lights
of the targets
and
about
2
ft.
a line front
in
same distance either At least two jets should
at the
above or below them.
be used to light each target,
otherwise
the
gas jets makes the light unsatisThe reflectors should be of tin or
flicker of the
factory.
other metal, polished or painted white. is
too fragile for this purpose.
lights
Heavy timbers
must be provided to protect the and piping from wild shots. A telescope
or steel plates ^
Glass
The
98 is
mounted
man
in
Pistol
and Revolver
each booth to enable the marks-
to see the location of shots in the bull's-
eye.
When
floor space
can sometimes
is
limited the
be located over the revolver
ranges, or the latter,
if
the range
firing point.
a cellar,
is in
be depressed by constructing a
depth at the
ranges
rifle
may
pit of a suitable
The booths
for rifle
shooting and the operation of the targets are practically the It
is
target
same
as already described.
best to complete
end
of the range
of the targets
is
work
the
all
at
the
After the location
first.
definitely fixed the position of
the firing line can be determined by
making the
distance from the target to the firing point two
inches in excess of 20 yd. or 50 yd. as the case
may
The
be.
slight excess distance
is
import-
ant to avoid any possibility of having scores disqualified in
case the range should later be
checked or verified and found desirable
whenever possible
of standard length,
to
especially
*'
short."
It is
have the ranges if
matches with
other clubs are contemplated.
The oils,
table for cleaning arms,
utensils,
and
surplus ammunition,
for tools,
etc.,
should
never be placed near the booths, but on the
Clubs and Ranges
99
opposite side of the room, to avoid congestion at the firing line.
The
on which the contestants stand
floor
at
the firing Hne must be firm and solid, so as not
move when
to vibrate or
close proximity.
A
others walk about in
concrete floor covered with
a carpet or rug of firm texture
The
is
excellent.
following simple rules should be printed
and posted
in
conspicuous places
ing range or gallery
in
every shoot-
:
RULES Arms
shall be
unloaded
until
the contestant
at the firing
is
point.
Loaded arms shall be handled with the muzzle pointingtoward the targets. Automatic arms shall be used only under the personal direction of the Shooting Master. Contestants are requested to use the greatest care in handling arms
at all times.
The
authority of the Shooting Master in charge shall be abso-
lute.
The
rules ot
the United States
match shooting. The above rules must be
govern
Revolver Association shall
all
The Walnut
Hill
Rifle Association
volver ranges
in
strictly
observed and
Range
is
of the
will
be enforced.
Massachusetts
one of the best 50-yd.
the country.
A
well-equipped
gallery that has recently been built
is
that of
the Crescent Athletic Club, Brooklyn, N. Y.
COFC
re-
loo
The
Pistol
and Revolver
Hints to Beginners^
—
There is no single arm of Arms. that can be used advantageously for all classes of Selection
shooting.
It
therefore necessary in the
is
place to decide for what purpose the
A
be used. "
Arms
"
and
arm
the text under
Ammunition,"
will
be of assistance
The
As
next step
the se-
is
already stated, the cheap,
and unsafe arms are to be carefully It
is
preferable to
buy a second-hand
of a reputable manufacturer,
dition,
to
of
lection of the arm.
avoided.
is
careful perusal "
in reaching a decision.
unreliable,
arm
first
than a
new one
of inferior
if
in
make.
good conSecond-
hand arms frequently have defects that cannot be detected by the novice, and, if obliged to buy a second-hand arm,
it
is
pert shot to assist in
advisable to ask
making the
some
selection.
price of the best grades of pistols
ex-
The
and revolvers
fortunately, within the reach of almost every
is,
one, and,
if
at all possible,
new arms should be
purchased. In any case, whether a ^
Under
this subject the
revolver shooting.
or a second-hand
author aims to give helpful practical infor-
mation and advice for the benefit of r?.nd
new
all
who wish
to acquire skill in pistol
Hints
arm
to be chosen,
is
handle
The
all
of the
feel
arm
Select an
it
loi
Beginners is
well to
examine and
the different models of the best makers.
and
fit
to
when properly
arm
are very important.
and which,
that feels comfortable, held,
fits
the hand so that the
first
joint of the trigger finger just touches the trigger
when
that part of the finger
is
bent at right angles
to the barrel.
The
revolver
position
of
pistol or
fit
the arm.
the
how
the
Note particularly the
trigger finger
and the thumb.
trigger finger in this position acts directly
backward
in pressing the trigger,
assists materially in
piece will
of holding the
here shown, and illustrates
is
hand should
The
manner
correct
is
and the thumb
steadying the piece.
If
the
too large for the hand, the trigger finger
be more or less extended, and will pull side-
wise to a greater or less degree, and thus increase the difficulty of fine shooting. is
much more
effect
The
of the
fit
important, and has a vastly greater
upon the
results than fine distinctions be-
tween the merits
named are excellent and are capable ing much more accurately than they can be held by the most expert shots.
hand
will
Anv
of the different arms.
those
large
arm
A
of
of shoot-
possibly
man
with a
probably find the Remington pistol
Hints or the Colt
New
to
Beginners
Service revolver best suited for
him; another with a hand find the S.
103
& W.
of
may
size
& W.
pistol or the S.
Model revolver most desirable with a small hand,
medium
Russian
while another
;
will
still,
prefer the Stevens pistol
or the .38-cal. military revolver, either the S.
& W.
or the Colt. r
If
an arm
wanted
is
plain blued finish,
for steady use, select the
and wood handles; elaborate
engraving and gold,
silver,
copper, or nickel
fin-
handsome and pleasing, but, if much used, become burnt and discolored where the powder gases escape, and soon become unished arms are
A
sightly.
blued finish
when shooting
in
is
also to be preferred
Most arms
the sunlight.
as
on the market have hard rubber handles.
offered
These become smooth and slippery when the hand perspires,
A
and are not
as desirable as
few expert shots prefer pearl
The sible
wood
handles.
handles^.
trigger pull should have the smallest pos-
travel
and be smooth and
The
positive.
smaller the travel of the hammer, the quicker will
be the discharge after pulling the trigger. trigger does not pull
comes by a
"
creepy
"
from
smooth and w^ear,
skilled gunsmith.
it
"
If
the
sweet," or be-
should be corrected
While the
rules allow a
The
I04
pull of 2 lb. for the
trigger for
and Revolver
Pistol
the
target
prefer to have
The
more.
many
revolver,
arm
their
rules
pull
allow
also
Most
rels for the revolver.
and 2^
pistol
from
shots
to
|-
and 8
7-|
of
expert
lb.
i
lb,
bar-
in.
the experienced
shots prefer to have their revolvers balance near
the trigger, and are of the opinion that the extra
length
of
barrel
above 6i
in.
does not offset
the disadvantage of poorer balance.
however, the length of barrel
Accuracy
in.
is
lost
is
In the pistol,
10
invariably
very rapidly as the distance
between the sights is reduced below 7^ in. For target-shooting, the .22-cal. pistols will be found admirably suited for beginners. charge ''
being
there
light,
flinch," a fault easily
quired
when
heavy charge.
liability
to
and almost invariably
ac-
is
the
more
less
the novice begins shooting with a
The
practice in aiming
ing the trigger with these arms ing and a
The
first-rate
difficult
is
and
pull-
excellent train-
and valuable preliminary to and practical work with the
revolver.
The very
double-action feature in a revolver
little
amount
practical value.
Owing
to the
is
of
varying
of resistance to the trigger in operating
the mechanism, the aim
is
disturbed more than
if
Hints the
hammer
rapid-fire
is
Beginners
to
105
Even
cocked with the thumb.
in
shooting better results are obtained with
a double-action
arm
if
used as a single action.
more difficult to make the trigger pull smooth and short in double-action mechanisms. Manipttlation, Most of the accidents with firearms are caused by carelessness and ignorance It is
also
—
in
The
manipulating them.
being
much
smaller, are
dle than the
enced
pistol
revolver and pistol,
more dangerous
to han-
An
experi-
or the shotgun.
rifle
shot can easily be singled out by
the extreme care
and unostentation with which
he handles his arms.
On
picking up an arm, or
one
if
you, open the action at once and
not loaded.
Always do
this,
is
make
even
if
handed sure it
is
it
to is
your
own arm and you are quite sure it was not loaded when you last put it away some one, without any idea of the danger, may have loaded it in ;
your absence. of
Cultivate and practise the habit
always holding the arm, whether loaded or un-
loaded, so that
it
would do no harm edly.
points in a direction where if
By observing
it
were
to
go
it
off unexpect-
these simple rules, serious
accidents will be impossible.
No
one should be
allowed to handle firearms in a shooting club or
The Pistol and Revolver
io6
participate in rules
any
of the public
matches
until these
have been thoroughly mastered.
Position
and Aiming.
—
you know
If
of a club
or shooting organization to which one or first-rate
ress
and revolver shots belong,
pistol
well to join
more
it, if
Much more
possible.
it
rapid prog-
can be made by observation and by follow-
ing the suggestions of experienced shots than
one
is
is
if
obliged to solve the various problems with-
out such assistance or advice. iarize yourself
with your arm,
In order to famil-
well to practise
it is
aiming and pulling the trigger before any actual shooting
shell for the
may The
By
attempted.
is
hammer
inserting an
to strike
empty
upon, the piece
be aimed and "snapped'' without injury. position you adopt
is
firmly on both feet, with the
anced and turned comfortable
that
body
perfectly bal-
such an anole as
when the arm
target in aiming.
position
at
is
Let the
may be
Stand
very important.
is
most
extended toward the left
arm assume any
comfortable and natural.
Select a small black spot with an extensive white
background
to sight at.
A
small black paster on
a window-pane, with the sky for a background, excellent for this purpose. correct,
that
is,
when
the
When sights
the aiming are
is
is
properly
Hints
fo
to;
Beginners
aligned, their position with reference to the spot
shown
or bulls-eye should be as
in Fig. 51.
top of the front sight should just
make
The
contact
with the lower edge of the bull's-eye corresponding to the position of
VI
by experience that
it
o'clock.
It
much
is
has been found
less fatiguing
to
lower the arm, holding the piece, to the target than to raise
With
it,
fully extended,
up
to the target.
the pistol or revolver in the right hand,
cock the hammer with the thumb, making sure that the trigger finger
is
from the trigger
free
and resting against the forward inner surface the trigger guard.
In cocking the piece, have the
barrel pointing upward.
upward and forward, your
firing position
so
Then extend the arm that when you assume
the piece will point about
twenty degrees above the
air fully
With your
bull's-eye.
eyes fixed on the bull's-eye at
enough
of
VI
but comfortably to
and lower the piece gradually
o'clock, inhale fill
until
the lungs, the line of
the sights comes a short distance below the bull'seye.
Now, holding your breath and steadying
the piece as well as you possibly can, bring the line of the sights into the position 51.
At
the
shown
in Fig.
same time gradually increase the
pressure on the trigger directly backward, so that
o
^ a
^ ,tj :=(
•>-'
^o
(V
cS
rg tA!
bjo
c 'S
^ biO
(U
(n
bi
'^
o
^
c:
1 '5
<4-l
o
1
w
d
d)
.s
fS
O
-^ 0)
.-y
rC
r)
eu
a
u->
^b«
Ph
K^
OJ
^
o
i=!
(D
lO
^O
:^
Hints
when
to
Beginners
109
the sights are pointing at the bull's-eye the
hammer
Be
will fall.
ger with a
careful not to pull the trig-
but ease
jerk,
with a gentle
off
it
Accustom
squeeze, so as not to disturb the aim. yourself not to close the eye
when
the
hammer
but note carefully w^here the line of the
falls,
ham-
sights actually points at the instant that the
mer
You
falls.
possible to pull
will,
no doubt, find
it
almost im-
moment the The hammer will fall when may point a little too high
the trigger at the
sights are just right.
the line of the sights
or too low, or to one side or the other of the
but patient practice wdll correct
bull's-eye;
and
in time
pulling of
operation to
will
be able to
let off
arm
the
it is,
;
master
— the
shooting.
If
the trigger
secret
of
the trigger
is
a very delicate
most important
in fact, the
pistol
is
the usual way, at the instant
pulled suddenly, in
when
the sights apis
so seri-
ously disturbed that a wild shot will result. this,
the
pressure
on
detail
and revolver
pear to be properly aligned, the aim
avoid
at
moment.
the right
The
you
this,
the
trigger
To must
always be steadily applied, and while the sights are in line with the bull's-eye.
possible to hold the
It is, of
arm absolutely
course, im-
still,
and aim
no
The
and Revolver
Pistol
steadily at one point while the pressure
applied to the trigger; steadiness of
but,
being
is
aiming, the un-
in
the shooter will cause the line of
the sights to point above the bulFs-eye, then below it,
to
one side
of
it,
and then to the
and forth and around
it,
shown by the dotted
as
Each time
lines in Fig. 52.
back
other,
that the line of the
sights passes over the bull's-eye the smallest pos-
increment
sible
sively applied finally
of additional pressure is succes-
to the
trigger until the piece
is
discharged at one of the moments that the
sights are in correct alignment.
Long and
lar practice alone will secure the
necessary train-
regu-
ing of the senses and muscles to act in sufficient
harmony to enable one to pull way at the right moment for shots.
A
"
fine
sympathy
between the hand, the
eye,
"
the trigger in this a long series of
must be established
and the
brain, render-
The
ing them capable of instant cooperation.
consciousness of the the the
mind and real charm
voluntary concurrence
the muscular system constitutes of pistol
After obtaining a
and revolver shooting.
fair
idea
of
watch carefully when the hammer if
it
of
jars the piece
aiming,
and note
falls,
and disturbs the aim.
you are holding the arm properly.
If
etc.,
If
not,
the aim
is
Hints disturbed, you
to
Beginners
must grip the arm tighter or more
move your hand up
loosely, or
ing the piece until your
hammer and
This aiming
turbed.
"
expert shots indoors,
drill
hold
down on
or
method
handle, or otherwise change your
can snap the
1 1
" is
the
of hold-
such that you
the aim remain undislargely practised by
is
when they do not have
the
opportunity to practise regularly out of doors.
Target Practice, is
done
at the
—
If
your
actual shooting
first
range of a club,
one of the members to coach you
accustomed
A
to the rules, etc.
best to ask
is
it
until
you get
target will be as-
signed to you, and you will repair to the firing point and load your arm.
coach piece
fire is
the
first
It
shot or
well to let your
is
see
to
tw^o,
sighted approximately right.
are ready to begin shooting. to be as in Fig. 5
1
at the
If
If
your
if
so,
you
the sights appear
moment
of discharge,
then the bullet should hit the centre of the bulTseye.
If,
after
several shots,
you are convinced
where
that the bullet does not strike
the
arm
is
not properly sighted for you.
justing the sights, you will find to
remember
rear sight,
it
a very simple rule
move
it
in the
same
it :
should,
In ad-
an advantage
To
correct the
direction as
would the shots on the target to correct them
you ;
or
I
The
12
move Most
Pistol
the front sight in the opposite direction. target
arms have the front sight non-adjust-
and the rear sight adjustable
able,
A
and elevation. the sights a
going
little
at a time,
according to the fore-
scores
then
should
rules,
etc.,
you
will
too
Do
straining on the eyes, and
ease.
not have your
much more
Fine sights are
fine.
at
and your shooting
improve correspondingly.
sights
the
to
more
feel
inspire confidence,
will
A
be fired for
As you become accustomed
record.
This
Move
sights for elevation.
until they are properly aligned.
rules,
few ten-shot
range,
windage
for both
few arms have interchangeable
or adjustable front
will
and Revolver
have no advantage
The
over moderately coarse sights.
rear sights,
as generally furnished, are purposely
made with
very small notches, so as to enable individuals to
make them any
desired size.
the trigger pull at least
the
minimum
allowed
is
little
of a
is
well to have
pound greater than
by the
rules.
sometimes wears
used, the pull
there
^
It
If
lighter;
much and
if
or no margin, you run the risk of
having your arm disqualified when you wish to enter an important match.
Never use other ammunition that for
which
it
is
in
chambered.
your arm than
A
number
of
Hints accidents and
much
actual
diameter of
varies considerably,
cause
thus
When
a barrel
become
same
In the
the
even
shots,
may
delay and
leaded
"
inaccurate.
if
they
lead the barrel,
much
is "
caliber
frequently
bullets
and a few
should not prove dangerous,
and
have resulted from
difficulty
using wrong ammunition. the
113
Beginners
to
annoyance.
from any cause
it
will
In such cases, particles of
lead usually adhere to the inside of the barrel at
or near the breech. able size to
When
fit
A
brass wire brush, of suit-
the barrel, will generally remove
this fails,
it.
remove all oil, cork the barrel and fill it with
carefully
up the opposite end of
mercury, letting the latter remain in the barrel until the lead
is
removed.
Occasionally the powder in
may be
the barrel and remain in
whether from careful to firing
When
it.
any
push the bullet out If
the primer ex-
driven partly through
this cause or
another shot.
accidentally omitted
When
loading a cartridge.
plodes, the bullet
is
this
happens,
other, always be
of the barrel before
the bullet
is
and another shot is fired, the barrel and ruined. This may occur with
not removed,
will
be bulged
a light gallery
charge.
When
shooting the
.22-cal.
long
rifle
cartridge.
1
The
1
and Revolver
an occasional
be
there will
Pistol
drawing the cartridge the bullet
and
barrel
To
prevent
In
misfire.
with-
will stick in the
the
pow^der
this,
hold the barrel vertically, with
the
into
spill
action.
the muzzle up, and withdraw the shell carefully.
Then remove cleaning rod
the
the
bullet in
with a
barrel
cartridge, inserting the shell filled with
chamber back
into the
minate
of
short
mercury and the
These caps
cation.
time.
tain powder,
much
this a
adhere
not use
They
you value.
The
and
of the bullet
Do
the usual manner. pistol that
new
or extract the bullet from a
;
BB
pow^der fire
it
in
caps in any
are loaded with ful-
bullets
have no
lubri-
wall ruin a barrel in a
.22-cal. conical ball
very
caps con-
and the bullets are lubricated, making better cartridge
to the regular .22
;
but
best to
is
it
ammunition
for
arm is chambered. Never under any circumstances shoot
which
the
jects
on the heads or
There
is
in
the hands of persons.
always a possibility of something going
wrong, and such risk to human able,
no matter how
life is unjustifi-
you may be. any match be sure
skilful
Before competing
in
thoroughly familiarize yourself with ditions.
at ob-
This
will
all
to
the con-
prevent mistakes which
fre-
Hints
to
Beginners
1 1
quently disqualify competitors and lead to disa-
greeable controversies.
Avoid getting
into
any
arguments or disputes with range officers, or officials in charge of the matches, and particuThe larly while the matches are in progress. range it
is
more
They
officers are invariably
extremely busy and
unjust to the other competitors to usurp of their time than
is
your proper portion.
are generally intelligent
been selected because of their positions
they
hold, and
their
rulings should be accepted as
men who have for the
fitness
and
decisions
final.
If
for
good
cause you should wish to protest against any decision or ruling of an officer in charge, do in a quiet
it
and gentlemanly way, and whether the
rules require
it
or not, such protest should be
made in writing. The annual matches of the United States Army, the National Guard and Militia organizations are generally held at some selected state or
government range, and
time.
at a certain specified
All the contestants are, therefore, shoot-
same ground and under approximately the same conditions. All the revolver ing on the
matches, except such as are conducted
in
the
armories during cold weather, are shot
in
the
The
1 1
open;
without shelter or protection from
e.
i.
and Revolver
Pistol
When
the wind.
shooting under these condi-
tions in the glaring sunlight,
it is
a decided ad-
vantage to wear suitable, colored, large-lensed spectacles to temper the bright light and rest
the eyes.
The
and top surface of the
sights
barrel should be
smoked
vent the reflection
of
or blackened to pre-
This
light.
may be
accomplished by burning a small piece of
gum
camphor, which makes an excellent smoke for this purpose, or
by painting with
A
wide rimmed hat
er
s
comfort
in
will also
''sight black."
add to the shootNailed or
the bright sunlight.
rubber soles for the boots or shoes are to be preferred because they do not wear slippery.
In squadded competitions the weather condi-
must be accepted
tions of
shooting.
the
as they are at the time
In re-entry and
matches the time of shooting
is
it
when
the
sometimes op-
When
tional with the competitor.
case
is
individual
this
is
the
a decided advantage to select a time
conditions
most favorable.
of
On
light,
wind,
etc.,
are
normal clear days, the
early forenoon, or just before sunset, are generally the
most favorable
for suitable light.
wind generally slacks up
to
a certain
The
degree
Hints also just before
to
Beginners
sundown.
117
Immediately after a
shower the conditions are sometimes excellent.
The
position of the target w^ith reference to the
sun must also be taken into consideration.
It
generally best to shoot directly toward or
is
directly
away from the
ing in a gusty wind
sun.
is
Rapid-fire shoot-
perhaps more
When
than under any other conditions.
wind do
is
steady one can brace up against
will invariably
it
the
and
when it is unsteady there In deliberbe some wild shots.
fair shooting,
ate
difficult
but
untimed shooting one can wait for a
lull
and
get the shots in during such brief intervals. In practising rapid-fire shooting, great care
is
necessary in order to prevent accidents, especially in the case of the automatic pistols,
which remain
cocked and ready to pull the trigger shot.
after
each
In shooting within a time limit, practise to
use the entire period allowed and endeavor to do the best possible work, getting in the last shot just before the
end
of the period.
In training for matches be abstemious and
maintain good physical condition. is
torpid
it
must be stimulated.
yourself with too to
much
If
your
Do
not
practice shooting.
two hours practice daily
is
ample.
liver tire
One
1
The
1
Pistol
and Revolver
also necessary to exercise
It is
extreme care
Some
practising with the pocket revolver.
in
per-
sons delight in practising quick drawing from the
pocket and firing one or more shots.
dangerous work for the novice of the
This
to attempt.
pocket weapons are double action.
is
Most If
the
finger gets into the
trigger guard
and the arm
catches in the pocket
when drawing,
a premature
discharge
is
which
likely to result,
always un-
is
pleasant and sometimes disastrous.
Practice in
drawing the revolver from the pocket or holster should always be begun with the arm unloaded.
Only
after a fair degree of skill
actual shooting be attempted.
is
acquired should
For quick drawing
from the pocket the only double-action revolvers that are fairly safe to handle are the S.
Safety Hammerless, and the Colt tion,"
which has a
"
& W.
Double Ac-
safety notch for the
hammer
to
rest on.
Drawing
much
less
pocket.
a revolver from a holster
dangerous than drawing
is
easier
and
from the
it
Larger and more practical arms are gen-
erally carried in holsters,
single action in
all
and such arms should be
cases.
In practising with a
holster weapon, fasten the holster
on the
anchor the belt so that the holster
will
belt,
and
always be
Hints
same
at the
fo
Beginners
119
The
holster should
relative position.
be cut out so that the forefinger can be placed on
Always carry a loaded arm with the hammer resting on an empty cham-
the trigger in drawing.
ber or between two cartridges.
where such shooting would not be
in localities
do any harm,
likely to at a
In the woods, or
wood
block of
it is
good practice
drifting
down
of a swift-flowing stream, at a
to
shoot
in the current
block of wood or a
tin
can swinging like a pendulum, from horseback
at
stationary and
moving- boat
moving
objects,
at similar objects.
largely indulged in
and from a
Such
practice
is
by cowboys, ranchmen, and
others in the western part of the United States.
Many
of the
ing of
this
published reports of wonderful shootcharacter are
Such shooting heavy charges
exaggerations.
work with extremely short range, and while
is
at
gross
generally rapid-fire
commended
as being extremely practi-
it is
to be
cal,
the actual performiances do not compare
vorably with similar work done by
fa-
many amateur
shots.
In shooting a long series of shots with black
powder ammunition, when the rules allow it, the barrel should be cleaned and examined every six or ten shots, depending
upon the clean-shooting
The
I20
qualities of the
examine the
ammunition used.
shells, also,
have been struck
some
and Revolver
Pistol
and note
If
out of
is
well to
is
the primers
if
the centre.
in
mechanism
of the
It
not,
then
and the
line,
must be
parts likely to have caused the trouble
cleaned.
After securing good,
Much
them.
reliable
time and progress
arms, is
stick
to
frequently lost
by buying and trying different arms, ammunition, etc.
If,
in
any
of
your shooting, you should get
results that are peculiar it
and unsatisfactory, make
your business to find out the cause
culty,
away
and remedy "
and
is
is
"
as soon as possible.
a large quantity of
and recklessly tice,
it
of the diffi-
ammunition
carelessly
absolutely valueless
a waste of time.
attention to your work,
and
try
Blazing
as
prac-
Give your whole your very best to
place every shot in the centre of the bulTs-eye. is
important to keep a
full,
detailed record of
your shooting, for comparison, study, able
Do few
book should be provided not
fall
etc.
A
It all
suit-
for this purpose.
into the habit of preserving only a
of the best scores
;
but
make
it
a rule to keep
a record of every shot,
and figure out the average
of each day's work.
The more painstaking and
systematic you are, the more rapid will be your
Hints
to
Beginners
121
By careful, intelligent work, it is posbecome a fair shot in three or four months,
progress. sible to
and
a first-rate shot in a year.
After a number of good shots have been devel-
oped
in
measure
any
club, there
skill
This leads
with the
is
generally a desire to
members
to friendly matches,
very enjoyable and
of another club.
which are usually
instructive.
Shooting
match places a man under a certain
strain
in
a
which
some become nervous and shoot poorly when the best work is expected of them, while others are braced up by the occasion and shoot brilliantly. Cleaning and Care of Arms, To maintain affects individuals quite differently;
—
the highest efficiency in an arm, to
keep
it
in perfect order.
must be kept clean and
it
is
necessary
The working oiled,
parts
and the barrel
should receive special attention and care.
The
some powders is less injurious than that of others, but the arm should in all cases be cleaned and oiled immediately after it has been residue of
The Heavy new
used.
purpose.
It
cleaning should be very thorough. cotton flannel
is
excellent for this
should be perfectly dry.
Much
the fouling will rub off without moisture, but
moisture
is
necessary to soften
the
of if
fouling in
The
122
and Revolver
Pistol
places, use a thin
oil.
kerosene, or similar
Never use water, ordinary For certain kinds of fluids.
smokeless powders, cleaning fluids have been prepared that give good
is
powder
wrong
For cleaning the inside is
best.
such
It
Square patches
wooden rod knob on the end of
a
it
will
fit
of the cotton
the bore snug and tight.
of suitable size
may
and used as required.
the breech end of the barrel
The
may do harm.
one or two thicknesses
around
in quantities
fluid
of a barrel a
shouM have
size that
flannel
careful to use
adapted to the particular
the special fluid that used, as the
Be
results.
Clean from
whenever
slightest burr or injury at the
spoil the accuracy of
then be cut
possible.
muzzle
an otherwise good barrel.
Particular care should be exercised, especially steel rod with a slot is used, to
from "jamming" ing the
inside
prevent the
the
barrel
if
a
wad
Continue clean-
in the barrel.
of
will
until
tight-fitting
when withdrawn, show no discoloration, and the barrel is warm from the friction of the cleaning. Then saturate a fresh patch with good
patches,
oil
and pass
making sure
it
through the barrel several times,
that the entire surface of the grooves
has been thoroughly coated with
oil.
After the
cylinder and other parts are cleaned, they should
Hints
A good
also be oiled. in
One"
;
Beginners oil
oil
123J
Three use refined sperm
for cleaning
for preventing rust,
Plenty of
oil.
to
is
should be kept on the
''
circle of
teeth in which the pawl engages in revolving the cylinder.
If
smokeless ammunition
is
used, the
oil
should be removed from the interior of the bar-
and the chambers
rel
and fresh
after the first cleaning,
In
warm
weather,
rust very quickly.
when If
day or two
of the cylinder, a
oil applied.
the air
is
humid, arms
they are not kept in an
air-
tight compartment, they should be inspected, and, if
necessary, oiled every few days.
Under
ordi-
nary conditions, a thorough cleaning and oiling will
preserve the arm in good condition for a
month. tect
If it is
them
desired to store the arms, or pro-
for long periods of time, the interior
surfaces of the frame,
and
all
should be carefully cleaned and
the
mechanism,
oiled,
and then
the entire space within the frame filled solid with
a non-liquid grease."
grease, like
the Winchester
"gun
After cleaning the barrel and cylinder,
the bore and chambers in the
cylinder should
also be filled solid with the grease.
This
treat-
ment excludes the air, and absolutely prevents oxidation. The exterior should be oiled, and then coated heavily with "gun grease." Place the arm
The
124 in a it
dry woollen cloth, or flannel cover, and wrap
up
in a double thickness of
weight
of the this,
and Revolver
Pistol
new manila paper
ordinary writing paper.
of
Repeat
wrapping twice more, each wrapping inde-
pendent place,
of the other.
Then
where the temperature
form, and not so
arm protected
warm
in
arm
lay the
in a
always be uni-
will
An
as to melt the grease.
way
this
will
dry
remain
in
good
condition for a period of two years.
Reloading Ammunition
The
factory-loaded ammunition for pistols and
revolvers
is
so excellent that
by hand loading.
little is
to be gained
sometimes desirable, how-
It is
ever, to use special loads that are not furnished
by the
factories,
loaded by hand. to
reload
and such ammunition must be Then,
ammunition
too,
many
for
economical
persons prefer reasons.
In order to do this successfully, considerable ex-
perience and
skill
are necessary.
The first attempts
at reloading are invariably unsatisfactory
appointing,
and sometimes
Extreme care and
result
plan for those
It
who
dis-
disastrously.
close attention to details are
absolutely essential, especially
ders are used.
and
is
much
if
smokeless pow-
the safest and
best
are unfamiliar with reloading
Reloading Ammunition
125
and study the methods used by skilled persons, and, if possible, have their first work supervised by an experienced person. to observe
Primers.
— The
primers are made of copper
and brass and are adapted smokeless powders. revolver cartridges for rifle cartridges.
for either black
The primers are made more If,
for pistol
by mistake,
The
and
sensitive than rifle-cartridge
primers are used, there are likely to be fires.
or
many
original pasteboard boxes
in
mis-
which
the cartridges or shells are purchased invariably
have labels designating the kind of primer that should be used in reloading them. of the primers affects the results to a
The much
quality
greater
degree than most persons imagine, especially in
reduced or gallery charges. transportation the fulminate
dropping out
of
some
is
of the
In handling or in
sometimes loosened, primers and leaving
them considerably weaker than the rest. On opening a new box, empty it carefully, and if any appreciable quantity of loose fulminate
is
found,
the primers should not be used for ammunition
intended for fine shooting. Shells.
— The
shells are generally
made
of brass
with a solid head containing a pocket for a primer.
There
is
considerable variation in the thickness
Tbe
126
and Revolver
Pistol
metal from which shells are
of the
must be the same
it
the
Since the outside dimen-
various manufacturers. sions
made by
in order to
fit
the chamber,
follows that the inside diameter of the shells will
When
vary.
the shell
difference in the size
to
be crimped a slight
unimportant, but for fine
is
work using black powder,
target
not to crimp the
must
is
In the latter case the bullet
shell.
sufficiently tight so that
fit
preferable
it is
it
will not
dislodged by the recoil of the arm. the bore, varies a
With it is
when adapted
trifle, also,
same
the
to
The
be
size of
cartridge,
with different manufacturers.
the slight difference in the size of the shells
therefore generally possible to select a
of shell the size of
which
will
make
be just right to hold
snugly in position by friction a bullet that exactly fits
the in
These refinements
the bore of the arm.
the
of
fit
bullet
and
shell
important
are
securing good results with reduced loads.
pistol
and revolver shooting, the
loaded
many
shells
in
may
times with smokeless powders.
In
be
re-
The
small charge and the consequent reduced pressure
do not seem
to render the shells brittle
suitable
for reloading, as
shells of
many
Bullets.
is
the
case
and un-
with the
of the high-pressure rifle cartridges.
— In
the
large
ammunition
factories
Reloadiiio"^5
Ammunition
12;
made by the swaging process with heavy machinery. They are, in consequence, very uniform in density and size. They are packed the bullets are
in
boxes of twenty-five and
and are lubricated
fifty
ready for use.
While very few persons are able
mould
as
bullets
when
those factory-made,
as
bullets of a particular shape, weight, or tem-
must be moulded. The Manufacturing Company's dipper and melt-
per are Ideal
good
desired, they
The
ing pot^ are useful for this purpose.
the bullets
be hardened, "block
are to
which may be had
at
any hardware
Weigh
loyed with the lead.
best
should be used.
quality of lead in bars or pigs If
to
tin,"
store, is al-
the proper quantity
each metal to give the desired proportions.
of
Melt the lead in the pot over a steady then add the
and
After both are melted immerse
tin.^
the dipper and allow of the
fire
melted lead.
it
to acquire the temperature
Then
the dipper and,
fill
with the nozzle horizontal, raise
it
two or three
inches above the surface of the lead in the pot. ^
The
Ideal Manufacturing
handbook containing ammunition,
loading
full
Company
of
New
Haven, Conn., publishes a
information in regard to moulding bullets, re-
tables,
and other
useful
information relating to
shooting. '
At
this stage
add a small quantity of tallow or beeswax
metal (about the size of a .45-cal. round bullet) and dipper.
This
will flux the
mixture and
make
it
stir
to the molten
briskly with the
flow better.
The
128
With
the
Pistol
mould
and Revolver
in the other hand, turn
side-
it
mould to Then, with the mould
wise and bring the pouring hole of the the nozzle of the dipper.
and dipper
in contact,
position until the dipper
tilt
is
or turn both in this
over the mould and the
nozzle vertical as shown.
The weight dipper
is
or pressure of the
lead
in
thus utilized to force the lead into and
Fig. 53.
completely
fill
— Moulding
Bullets.
the corners of the mould.
necessary to mould forty or
fifty bullets
It will
first-class bullets.
be
before the
mould acquires the proper temperature and
casts
All imperfect bullets should be
thrown back into the melting-pot.
Experience
has shown that the best results are obtained the lead
the
when
and mould are such a temperature that
two or three seconds elapse before the lead
solidi-
^
Reloading Ammunition
129
the pouring hole after the nozzle has been
fies in
removed from red-hot, as
forms on
it
its
Do
it.
not allow the lead to get
oxidizes very rapidly
and more dross
The
surface at that temperature.
dross should be
skimmed
A
collect in the dipper.
off
and not allowed
new mould
to
will not cast
perfect bullets until the surfaces in contact with
the lead are free from dized,
oil
and have become
assuming a deep blue
surface for the bullets to
them from while hot.
wooden
upon
after releasing
the mould, as they are easily deformed
The
sliding top or " cut-off " should
down
be operated by pressing
board or
Provide a soft
color.
fall
oxi-
the lever end on a
table, or striking the lever
mallet.
The mould
the bullet drops out.
If
is
with a small
then opened, and
the bullet sticks in the
mould, strike the empty half of the mould on the outside, directing
This
the
wnll jar the bullet
difficulty.
Never
blow toward the
bullet.
out of the mould without
strike the
mould with
a
hammer
or any hard substance, and never attempt to pry a bullet out
of the
mould or touch the
surface with anything that will
mar
it.
fect.
After using,
The
least
mould will stick and make them imperoil the interior and exterior
indentation of the sharp edges of the
cause the bullets to
interior
The
130
surfaces and
Pistol
joints while
and keep
cloth,
The
rust.
mould
and Revolver warm, wrap where
in a dry place
way is to fill the with "gun grease"
safest
solid
in a
dry
will
not
it
inside of the after
has
it
cooled.
The
of
fit
Nearly
the
bullets
very
is
important.
the bullets for revolver cartridges have
all
been designed to be used with black powder.
Many
of
them
are slightly under size
concave bases which upset ignition of the regulation
and have on the
sufficiently,
powder charge,
to
fill
Reduced charges
the grooves of the barrel.
black powder, and smokeless powders, even in
of
full
charges, seldom upset the bases of these bullets,
and the powder gas escapes around the the
which
bullet,
This
is fatal
is
known
to accuracy.
as
"gas cutting."
For smokeless powders
and reduced loads the concave cavity of the bullet
thickness
weaken
it
powder
to
must be large enough
so
outer rim
the
of
it
fill
will
sides of
base
to reduce the
the
of
at the
bullet
and
be expanded sufficiently by the
the grooves of the barrel
;
or the
diameter of the bullet should be increased so as to
produce the same
determine the
fit
effect.
of the bullet
A is
simple test to to force
it
into
a clean barrel, and then hold the barrel in the
Reloading Ammunition
window
direction of a
131
or bright light.
light
If
can be seen in any of the grooves around the bullet,
remedy
is
have the bullet mould reamed out
to
and enlarged so the
To
bullets will be the proper size.
determine the actual diameter
a pistol or revolver, liberally
of
The
too small for smokeless powder.
it is
oil
With
bore of
the inside of the barrel
and then force a
inches.
of the
bullet into
a couple
it
wooden cleaning
a short
rod,
hold the bullet in that position while you drive against
with another rod from the opposite
it
direction,
swaging
it
so as to
must be done gently and strain or injure
fill
This
the barrel.
carefully so as not to
the barrel.
The
bullet
is
then
driven out and carefully measured with a microm-
Many who mould
eter gauge.
prefer to order the
exact size to
fit
mould
the barrel
their
own
bullets
to cast the bullets the ;
while others prefer to
have the mould cast the bullet one or two thousandths of an inch too large, and then pass them
through
a
sizing
tool,
The
latter
correct size.
uniformity.
reducing
them
little
I,
of lead
and
tin
bullets
harder than for black
powder, the proportions being from 30 to to
the
method insures absolute
For smokeless powders the
are generally cast a
to
respectively.
To
i,
to 20
secure
The
132
good
results,
than
2^
The is
Pistol
and Revolver
^^ weight.
next operation after moulding the bullets
A
to lubricate them.
good lubricant may be
prepared by melting together i^ wax,
The
more
bullets should not vary
the
lb.
I
of
mutton
tallow,
and
i
Japan
of
lb. lb. of
vaseline.
bullets should be set in a shallow pan, bases
down, and with a small space separating them.
The
lubricant can then be poured around
until
it
rises
high enough to
fill
the top cannelure.
After cooling, the bullets are cut out lubricant by forcing
them
into the
Each
bullet
is
of
mouth
specially prepared shell with the top or off.
them the of a
head cut
picked up in this way and
then pushed out with a round
Any
stick.
lubri-
cant on the base of the bullet should be removed
with
a
machine Ideal sizes
cloth
before
An
loading.
for lubricating bullets
is
Manufacturing Company.
and lubricates the
It is rapid, clean,
Powders,
bullet at
made by the The machine one operation.
and performs the work
— American
excellent
perfectly.
powder manufacturers
have no uniform practice in regard to des^ignating the different grades of powder, sizes of grains, etc.
The powders
that
give
the
best
under certain conditions must therefore be
results classi-
Reloading Ammunition
The
fied.
for
133
following black powders are best suited
ammunition
twenty grains
:
—
which the charge
in
ten to
is
American Powder Mills Rifle Cartridge No. 4. Kentucky Rifle Hazard Powder Company's ''
F F
G."
E. L
Dupont de Nemours
F F
pont Rifle Laflin
King
F F
Company's ''Du-
G."
& Rand Powder
Rifle Extra
&
F F
Company's
"
Orange
G."
Powder
Company's
'*
Semi-smokeless
G."
When
the charge
is
less
than ten grains in
weight, one size finer grain of the above powders
used
should be
and
;
twenty grains, one
for charges heavier
than
size coarser grain will give the
best results.
For reduced or gallery charges, the high-grade quick-burning shotgun powders are used,
such
Diamond be used in
as
"
Hazard's
Grain," etc. full
shell will give
Electric,"
sometimes "
Dupont's
These pow^ders should not
charges, and
if
compressed
in the
very irregular shooting.
Smokeless powder
differs
from black not only
in composition, but also in the
attend combustion.
phenomena
that
Special conditions are there-
1
The
34
Pistol
and Revolver
fore created
which have an important bearing on
the results.
Smokeless powders are divided into
two general "dense,"
classes,
the
same strength
"
designated as
bulk
former having approximately the as an equal bulk of black powder,
while the same quantity by bulk of the latter
have from
five
black powder.
very
much
and
"
to
times
ten
may
strength
the
of
The bulk powders may be used
the same as black powder, except that
they should never be compressed.
No
air
space
powder and the bullet. Dupont's Smokeless Rifle Powder No. 2 and Hazard's Smokeless Rifle Powder No. 2 are good
is
required between the
examples
of the
bulk powders.
The dense powders, such
as
BulFs-eye, Walsrode, Ballastite,
du Pont
&
Co/s and others, on
account of their concentrated form, must be ma-
The same
nipulated with great care and precision.
quantity by bulk as black powder of any of these
would
in
shells with
many
cases
cause
disaster.
an annular crease, which only admits
the bullet a certain distance into the the shell, and providing an air space,
cases be used with these powders. ties of
Special
mouth
of
must
in all
Some
varie-
smokeless powders, like Walsrode, require
a certain
amount
of
confinement in order to secure
Reloading Ammunition
00
complete combustion, and do not give good results unless the shell
A
is
crimped securely to the
table giving the proper charges
is
bullet.
supplied by
the manufacturers of smokeless powders, suit-
all
and
shooting.
These
charges should in no case be increased.
If it is
able
for
revolver
pistol
desired to adapt a smokeless charge to a special bullet,
which gives good
der, the
easily
pow-
results with black
approximate equivalent in smokeless can
be calculated from the powder company's
table of charges.
the calculated charge does
If
not give good results, compare the penetration of the
charge with the
smokeless
black
charge, and modify the former until
it
powder
gives ap-
proximately the same penetration as the If this
does not correct the
difficulty, the fit of
bullet should be investigated,
have to be increased
latter.
and possibly
in size slightly
it
the
may
and hardened
before the best results will be obtained.
No
attempt should be
made
to secure higher
velocities or greater penetration with the ordinary
lead bullet than
Such
results
obtained with black powder.
can only be produced with hard
alloy or jacketed in
is
arms designed
bullets, special rifling, etc.,
and
to withstand the severe condi-
tions incident to such
augmented
effects.
Exces-
1
The
36
sive
and Revolver
Pistol
charges in regulation arms, besides being
extremely dangerous, are likely to cause the bullet to strip the rifling
and lead the
Reloading. — Suitable
barrel.
tools for
reloading are
furnished by the Ideal Manufacturing Company,
Smith
&
Wesson, and the Winchester Repeating
Arms Company. These
usually consist of one or
more combination
with which the various
tools,
operations of reloading rapidity
may
In reloading ammunition
and precision.
the one thing to be borne in
No
uniformity. quality of the
there
is
be performed with
mind above
is
how excellent may be the powder, or how perfect the bullets, if
any variation
in quantity, size, etc., the
bullets should be of the
weight, the
else
matter
and disappointing.
results will surely be irregular
The
all
mouth
same diameter and
of the shells of
uniform
powder accurately measured, and in the operation of loading
as nearly identical as
it
is
all
size,
the
the details
each shell should be
possible to
make them.
Shells that have been loaded with black pow-
der will corrode very rapidly
promptly cared
for.
if
not properly and
The primer should be
ex-
tracted from the shells as soon as practicable after
firing.
mersed
in
The hot
shells should
then
be im-
soap-suds and stirred around
Reloading Ammunition briskly until thoroughly washed. to brighten
one
them or
tablespoonful
quart of suds.
to
If
desired
it is
remove corrosion, add
sulphuric
of
137
acid
Rinse the shells
boiling waters by agitating
them
in
each
to
two clean
as before,
and
then dry them by exposure to sunlight or mild Intense heat will draw the temper of the
heat. shells
and ruin them. crimped they
nally
If
will
the shells were origi-
have
be opened with
to
the tool so as to admit the bullet without shav-
ing off or abrading
ufacturing
its
Company
The
surface.
Ideal
Man-
can furnish a special plug,
by which the primer may be extracted and the mouth of the shell opened screwed to the in
tool,
one operation, the tool automatically
ing the shell from the plug, thus
releas-
making the
operation of opening the mouth of the shell rapid and easy.
In the case of smokeless pow-
ders the cleaning of the shells ant,
but
is
desirable, as
is
some
not so import-
of the
leave a sticky residue which interferes
powders
more
or
less with the reloading process.
After the shells have been cleaned and dried the
new primers may be placed
doing
this
bottom
in position.
In
be sure to seat them firmly on the
of the pocket
and below the surface of
Tbe
138
and Revolver
Pistol
the head of the shell.
This
prevent mis-
will
and premature explosions. The measuring of the powder charge is the most important detail in reloading ammunition. There are several devices to measure powder fires
and fairly accurate. Those furnished by the Ideal Manufacturing Company, designated as No. 5 or No. 6, and those made by H. M. Pope and D. W. King, Jr., are the that are convenient
The
best.
usual
method
powder with a charge cup
A
the reloading tools.
is
that
measure the
to is
supplied with
quantity of the powder
should be poured from the can into a small box
and the charge cup dipped into
With
and
it
a thin lead-pencil tap the cup lightly two or
three times on the side to settle the formly.
If
powder
being careful not to
in
powder already
tilt
in
By measuring
and verifying
it
it.
Strike off the
the
powder
it
in
in
a
powder into the
this
by weighing each charge
delicate balance, a high degree of skill
acquired
fill it,
the cup so as to disturb
the cup with the pencil and pour
shell.
uni-
the powder settles below the top of the
cup dip the cup into the powder again and the
filled.
short time.
way in
a
may be
Ordinary revolver
charges should not vary more than one-tenth of
Reloading Ammunition
The charge cup method
a grain in weight.
light
many
is
measuring smokeless powas some varieties, being coarse grained and in weight, are liable to form large voids.
preferred by ders,
139
in
Such voids are invariably corrected when the charge cup is tapped and the powder settles. After the desired quantity of shells has been
primed and charged with powder, the
bullets,
properly lubricated, are started into the shells
by hand and then one by one the cartridges are placed
in
the reloading tool, which seats the
and crimps the
shell.
In reduced charges
when
bullet
below the mouth of the
the bullet
shell,
powder gallery
loads,
seated
the tool should
be adjusted so as not to crimp the black
is
as
shell.
given
The under
''Ammunition," are entirely satisfactory and are fairly accurate
up
to distances of
twenty yards.
Fired from a 6i-inch barrel they will generally
shoot within a li-inch
circle at
that distance.
In loading cartridges in which the shells are not
crimped on the
bullets,
it is
very important that
both the shells and the bullets should be absolutely uniform in size, so that the lets in
fit
of the bul-
the shell will be the same in
By reloading some
all
cases.
of the shells oftener than
The
I40
Pistol
and Revolver
others or with different charges, the expansion of the shells will
vary and the bullets
more or
less tightly.
fired will
vary
will
fit
Such ammunition when
in elevation.
It is
well to begin
same load in them and reloading them the same number of times. Even with the same charge and under apparwith
new
shells using the
ently identical conditions a few of the shells will
expand
differently.
This variation
be readily discovered
will
however
in seating the bullets
with
Cartridges in which the bullets seat
the tool.
with greater or less effort than
the
average
should be carefully separated from the rest and not used
when
fine
In reloading
shooting
is
required.
ammunition with round
bullets
the neck of the bullet should be up, opposite the
powder
In this position the neck
side.
is
and any turning of the bullet so as to bring the neck on the side and in contact with the barrel will be apparent and can be coralways
in sight,
rected.
All
round bullets should be
at least
i/iooo of an inch larger in diameter than the
bottom
of
the
grooves of the barrel.
This
causes them to deform slightly on the circle of contact with the barrel, and creates a narrow cylindrical surface
around the
bullet,
securing a
Reloading Ammunition
141
better bearing and greatly increasing the accur-
let
insures the tight fitting of the bul-
It also
acy.
the shell, preventing
in
placed by the ly,
or
there
if
where
bullet
recoil.
from being
round bullets
If
fit
dis-
loose-
the slightest imperfection in the
is it
it
comes
contact with the shell
in
or the barrel, ''gas-cutting" will result and hot lubricant
is
by the
liable to pass
powder charge.
bullet into the
In either case the accuracy
is
impaired.
''bulk"
when black powder or smokeless powder is used, the bullets
may be
seated so as to just touch the powder
In
reduced
loads
never so
charge;
as
to
compress
it.
When
"dense" smokeless powder is used a suitable air This is necesspace must always be provided. sary both w^hen round or conical bullets are
With
used. ever,
all
forms of conical bullets, how-
and wdien using either "dense" or "bulk"
smokeless powder,
in
full
or reduced charges,
better results are generally obtained by seating
the bullets in the regulation position and crimp-
ing the shells moderately and uniformly on the
middle of the front band of the
When bullets
it is
bullet.
desired for any reason to seat the
below the mouth
of the shell in
ammu-
The
142
Pistol
nition loaded with
the
amount
of
and Revolver
dense" smokeless powder,
*'
the
air
space
will
affect
the
The po
accuracy to an extraordinary degree.
sition of the bullets in the shells as given in the
following table will provide approximately the right air space
"3
and give good
a5~
w Bullet and
Case or
results
Brand of Smokeless Powder and Weight in Grains.
Weight
Shell.
in Grains.
Q
S.&W.
Special.
.361
Round
Russian Russian Russian
.431
"
.44
& W. S. & W. S. & W.
.45
.45
.38
.44 S. .44
72
du Pont
..
"
Conical 160 Conical gal.
Colt
.456
Round
Colt
.456
Conical 144 .... du Pont
When
Co.'s Bull's-eye, 2.0.. Ts
in.
2.3.. Tu in.
.430
.430
&
121
no
2.4..
^in.
2.3..
iin.
2.5..
145 Sl
Co.'s Shot-gun, 8.0.
i in.
Flush
round bullets are used, the lubricant
must be applied after they have been seated. This can best be done with a small brush. The brush is dipped into melted lubricant and then passed around the bullet where it is in contact with the able.
shell.
At
Too much
lubricant
is
undesir-
least three-quarters of the surface of
the bullet should project above the lubricant.
By keeping
the lubricant at a constant temper-
ature, the quantity adhering to the brush will
be approximately uniform.
the
same
and the
results
APPENDIX ANNUAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCHES OF THE UNITED STATES EEVOLVER ASSOCIATION. MATCH A— REVOLVER
CHAMPIONSHIP.— Open to everybody; distance, 50 yards; 50 shots on the Standard American target, 8-inch bull's-eye, 10 ring 3.36 inches; arm, any revolver within the rules; ammunition, any; the score must be completed in one hour or less from the time of firing the first shot; entrance fee, $3; no reentries. Prizes: Firstf the championship silver cup (value, $200), to be held by the winner until the next annual competition; inscribed on
the cup, in raised ornamental letters, is, *' This Cup Represents the Revolver Championship of the United States of America"; the name of the winner, the year and the score are also engraved on the cup each year; to the winner is also awarded a gold medal (value, $25), with the same inscription on the reverse side as appears on the cup. Second, a gold and silver medal, with inscription on the reverse side.
Third, a silver medal, with inscription on the reverse side. Fourth, a silver and bronze medal, with inscription on the reverse side.
a bronze medal, with inscription on the reverse side. bronze honor medal of the same design is also awarded to every competitor, not a prize winner, making a score of 425 or Fifth,
A
better.
MATCH B—PISTOL. CHAMPIONSHIP.— Open
to
everybody; dis-
tance, 50 yards; 50 shots on same target as Match A; arm, any pistol within the rules; ammunition, any; the score must be completed in one hour or less from the time of firing the first shot; entrance fee, $a; no re-entries. Prizes: First, the championship silver cup (value, $175), to be held by the winner until the next annual competition; inscribed on the cup, in raised ornamental letters, is, " This Cup Represents the Pistol Championship of the United States of America"; the name of the winner, the year and the score are also engraved on the cup each year; to the winner is also awarded a gold medal (value, $25), with the same inscription on the reverse side as appears on the cup.
The
144 Second, a
silver
Pistol
and Revolver
reverse and gold medal, with inscription on the
the reverse side. ^\hird, a silver medal, with inscription on inscription on the reverse Fourth, a bronze and silver medal, with side.
.
,
T
reverse side a bronze medal, with inscription on the is also awarded to A bronze honor medal of the same design making a score of 435 or every competitor, not a prize winner, Fifth,
better. to everybody; MATCH C-MILITARY CHAMPIONSHIP.-Open strings of ^ shots on the
distance,
50
yards; fifteen consecutive
same target as Match A; each
string
must be shot withm the time
the command, Fire; misfires limit of 15 seconds, taking time from disabled while firing becoming arm the of account on lost and shots after the time limit fired is shot a if zero; scored any string will be deducted from the be will count highest has elapsed, the shot of military revolver, or any miliscore; no cleaning allowed; arm, any full charge magazine pistol within the rules; ammunition, the
tary
approved
loaded ammunition service cartridge, or equivalent factory be completed on the by the executive committee; the score must after beginnmg the allowed be will same day; no sighting shots score; entrance tee, $3; no re-entries. trophy (an elaborate silver Prizes: First, the championship silver next annual to be held by the winner until the
bowl value
$450),
"The Military Recompetition; the trophy bears the inscription, the name of America' volver Championship of the United States score are also engraved on the of the winner, the year, and the awarded a gold medal trophy each year; to the winner is also the reverse side as apon inscription same the with (value. $25), pears on the trophy. inscription on the reverse Second, a silver and gold medal, with ;
side.
.n
,
side. a silver medal, with inscription on the reverse on the reverse inscription with medal, silver and bronze Fourth, a
Third
side.
,
.,
reverse side. a bronze medal, with inscription on the is also awarded to every A bronze honor medal of the same designscore of 500 or better competitor, not a prize winner, making a a 4 x 5-inch elliptical with target military the 1901 In 1900 and the Possible was and counted 5 bull's-eye The bull's-eye was used. with the 8-incn target American Since then the Standard 375. twenty-five shots y^re fired bull's-eye has been used. Prior to 1904, yards. That year the other at each of three ranges-25, 50 and 75 have since been fired at shots 75 the and discontinued ranges were 50 yards only. Fifth,
MATCH.-Open to everybody; D-MILITARY strings of 5 shots y^der ^he distance, 50 yards; five consecutive unlimited. as Match C; entrance fee, $1; entries
MATCH
same conditions
RECORD
H5
Appendix
This match was instituted in 1902. Being a re-entry match it affords good practice under the same conditions as Match C. Prizes: First, a gold trophy (a laurel wreath surrounding a scroll, mounted on an ebony shield; value, $150); between the scroll and the wreath is a ribbon on which, in raised letters, is, " The United States Revolver Association "; at the top of the scroll is engraved, " Military Record Match." The name of the winner, the year, and the score for each year are engraved on the scroll below; this trophy is held by the winner until the next annual competition, and is to become the property of the competitor winning it three times. Second, a silver medal, Third, a bronze medal,
with inscription on the reverse with inscription on the reverse
side. side.
A
bronze honor medal of the same design is also awarded to every competitor, not a prize winner, making a score of 175 or better.
INDOOR REVOLVER
CHAMPIONSHIP.-Open to everybody; distance, 20 yards; light must be artificial; 50 shots on the StandardAmerican target, bull's-eye 2.72 inches and 10 ring 1.13 inches in diameter, respectively; arm, any revolver within the rules; ammunition, any smokeless gallery charge. The score must be completed in one hour or less from the time of firing the first shot. Entrance fee, $3; no re-entries. Prizes: First, a silver cup (value, $40), bearing the names and scores of the winners, to be held until the next annual competition, the cup to become the property of the person winning it three times. Second, a gold and silver medal, with inscription on the reverse side.
Third, a silver medal, with inscription on the reverse side. Fourth, a silver and bronze medal, with inscription on the reverse side.
a bronze medal, with inscription on the reverse side. bronze honor medal will also be awarded to any competitor, not a prize winner, making a score of 425 or better. Fifth,
A
INDOOR
PISTOL CHAMPIONSHIP.— Open to everybody; distance, 20 yards; light must be artificial; 50 shots on the StandardAmerican target; bull's-eye 2.72 inches and 10 ring 1.13 inches in diameter, respectively; arm, any pistol within the rules; ammunition, any smokeless gallery charge. Black powder may be used in The score must be completed in one hour or less 22 cal. arms. from the time of firing the first shot. Entrance fee, $3; no reentries. Prizes:
The same as in the Indoor Revolver Championship, excep't that honor medals are awarded for scores of 435 or better.
The
146
Pistol
and Revolver
AND EEGULATIONS GOVERNING THE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCHES OF THE U. S. E. A.
EXILES
1. General Conditions.—Competitors must make themselves acquainted with the rules and regulations of the Association, as the plea of ignorance will receive no consideration. The rulings and decisions of the executive committee are final in all cases. These rules are for general application, but will not apply in cases where the special conditions of any match conflict with them. 2. Classification of Arms.— in) Any revolver. A revolver of any calibre. Maximum length of barrel including cylinder, 10 inches. Minimum trigger pull, 2^ pounds. Sights may be adjustable but they must be strictly open, in front of the hammer and not over 10 inches apart. (b) Any pistol. A pistol of any calibre. Maximum length of barrel, 10 inches. Minimum trigger pull, 2 pounds. Sights may be adjustable but they must be strictly open, in front of the hammer and not over 10 inches apart. (c) Military revolver or pistol. A revolver, or a magazine pistol, that has been adopted by any civilized government for the armament of its army or navy. Maximum weight, 2| pounds. Maximum length of barrel, 7^ inches. Minimum trigger pull, 4 pounds. Fixed open sights. Rear sights of magazine pistols may be ad-
justable for elevation only. (d) Pocket revolver. revolver having a maximum weight of 2 pounds. Maximum length of barrel, 4 inches. Minimum trigger pull, 4 pounds. Sights and model must be such as not to hinder quick drawing of the weapon from the pocket or holster. Loading, Firing, Timing and Gleaning.— In all revolver and pistol 3. matches the weapon must not be loaded until the competitor has taken his position at the firing point. The barrel must always be kept vertical or pointed towards the target. After a match or record score has been begun, in case of an accidental discharge or of defective ammunition, if the bullet comes out of the barrel it will be as will be scored a shot. The timing in matches C and follows: The competitor standing at the firing point with the arm loaded, not cocked, and the barrel pointing downward in a direction not less than 45 degrees from the target, will signify to the scorer when he is ready to begin each string. The scorer, stop watch in hand, will then give the command, " Fire," and exactly fifteen seconds later announce, ** Time." Misfires will not be scored except in matches C and D. Competitors may clean weapons in and B, and in the Indoor Championships, but no time matches allowance will be made for time spent in this way. All competitors will be required to finish their scores within the time limits specified, except in cases of accident, when the time may be expended at the option of the executive committee. Blowing through the barrel, to moisten it, will be considered cleaning.
A
D
A
i47
Appendix
In revolver matches the arm must not be used as a single loader or loaded so as to use a limited number of chambers in the cylinder. The cylinder must be charged with the full number of rounds for which it is chambered, and these must be shot consecutively. If scores are shot in ten shot strings, the cylinder shall be charged If the cylinder first with six rounds and then with four rounds. only contains five chambers, then the ten shot strings may be shot in two strings of five each. In matches C and D, and in the indoor or gallery events, the arm shall in all cases be charged with five rounds. 4. Position.— l^Yie position shall be standing, free from any support, the pistol or revolver being held in one hand, with arm extended, so as to be free from the body. Anns.—Any revolver or pistol which in the opinion of the ex5. ecutive committee complies with the conditions specified in the various matches will be allowed to compete in those events. Revolvers or magazine pistols that have been adopted by any government for the armament of its army or navy, or such as in the opinion of the executive committee are suitable for military service, will be allowed in matches C and D. Among the arms which may be used in these matches are the .38 calibre Smith & Wesson or Colt military; .44 Smith & Wesson, Russian model; 44 Colt New Service;
.45
Smith
& Wesson
Scofield;
.45
Smith
& Wesson New
Century; .45 Colt, and the following magazine or automatic pistols: Colt, Borchardt, Luger, Mannlicher, Mauser, Mors. Sights.— In open sights, the notch of the rear sight must be as 6. wide on top as at any part. Aperture or peep sights or any covered or shaded sights will not be allowed. The use of a notch for the front sight will not be permitted. Sights may be smoked or blackened if desired. Sights on military arms, if modified to suit individuals, must remain strictly open, strong and substantial, and suitable for military use. Trigger-Pull.— The trigger-pull as specified in the various events 7. shall be determined by a test weight equal to the minimum pull applied at a point three-eighths of an inch from the end of the trigger and at right angles to the pin through the trigger. Ammunition.— In matches C and D, and in the medal competi8. tion, where full charge ammunition is required, it may be the product of any reputable manufacturer. It must in all cases be brought to the firing point in unbroken boxes, with the label of the
manufacturer
intact.
The 200-yard Standard American rifie target No. 1 (containing the 4 ring), with an eight-inch bull's-eye shall be used in all matches at 50 yards. The diameters of the rings are as fol.9.
Targets.
lows: 10 ring equals 3.36 inches; 9 ring equals 5.54 inches; 8 ring equals 8 inches; 7 ring equals 11 inches; 6 ring equals 14.8 inches; 5 ring equals 19.68 inches; 4 ring equals 26 inches; rest of target The same target reduced so that 28 inches by 28 inches counts 3. the bulL's-eye or 8 ring is 2.72 inches in diameter and the 10 ring 1.13 Inches in diameter, shall be used for all matches at 20 yards.
148
The
Pistol
and Revolver
Marldng and Scoring.— In all matches new paper targets shall be furnished for each competitor. Not more than ten shots are to be fired on any target at 50 yards, and not more than five shots on any target in matches C and D and for all shooting at 20 yards; the shot holes in all cases to remain uncovered and left as shot. Bullets touching, striking, or within a line on the target are to be scored the count of that line. The eye alone shall determine whether a bullet touches a line or not. 11. Ties.— Ties shall be decided as follows: (1) By the score at the longest distance; (2) by the score at the next longest distance; (3) by the fewest number of shots of lowest count; (4) by firing five shots each under the same conditions as the match and these rules in regard to ties, until decided. Supervision.— The shooting in all the U. S. R. A. events must 12. take place in the presence of at least two witnesses, one of whom must be an authorized officer of the local club, or shooting organization, or a governor appointed by the U. S. R. A. This officer shall certify that each contestant has complied with all the U. S. R. A. regulations as to distance, weapon, time, ammunition, etc., noting same on the blank spaces provided on the score cards and signing the score cards in duplicate for each contestant. 13. Protests.—Any person who believes that an Injustice has been done, or who dissents from the decision of any authorized executive oflScer of the association, may enter a protest on depositing $1 with the cashier or acting treasurer of the club or organization under whose auspices the matches are held. Such protest must be in w^riting, in duplicate, and must be made within 24 hours after the incident on which it is based. One copy to be handed to the executive officer of the club or organization conducting the matches and the other copy to be mailed to the secretary-treasurer of the U. S. R. A. All protests will be investigated and passed upon by the executive committee, and, if sustained, the protest fee will be returned; otherwise it will be forfeited. Records.— The shooting for records shall, when practicable, be 14. done on the grounds or in a gallery of a regularly organized shooting association, military organization or club, and in the presence of at least two witnesses, one of whom shall be an oflftcer of the U. S. R. A., of such shooting organization or club. The foregoing rules and regulations and the conditions governing the championship matches of the U. S. R. A. must in all cases be observed and followed. The record score shall begin with the first shot after the shooter has announced his intention to shoot for record; only the first ten shots will apply to the ten shot record; the first twenty shots to the twenty shot record, and so on to 50 or 100 shots, as the shooter may desire. Such scores for record must in all cases be completed within the same proportional time limit as is specified After finishing the for the corresponding championship match. record score, the target shall be identified and signed by the witnesses as above designated. The witnesses shall also prepare and sign a certificate of prescribed form, which, with the detailed score 10.
Appendix
149
all targets, shall be forwarded to the U. S. R. A., addressed to the secretary-treasurer. If all the conditions, rules and regulations have been complied with, the scoring correct, and if the score is higher than or equal to any previously made under the same conThe score will then be ditions, it will be declared a new record. entered as such in the record book of the association, and the shooter formally notified to that effect.
and
METHODS AND CUSTOMS TO BE FOLLOWED IN CONDUCTING THE ANNUAL COMPETITIONS OF THE U. S. E. A. The conditions under which local clubs may be authorized to conduct the Championship Matches of the U. S. R. A. are as follows: There must be not less than six members of the Association residing within twenty-five miles of the proposed place of holding the contest and there must be not less than three entries in one of the Championship matches. The U. S. R. A. will furnish certified targets, score cards, and the prizes for the Championship events; the club or organization to furnish the shooting facilities free of expense to the Association and turn over to the secretary-treasurer all the entrance fees for the U. S. R. A. events. This plan has in all cases given satisfactory results, because the practice shooting of the contestants in the local re-entry matches usually affords sufficient revenue to pay the expenses of the tournament. When a competitor signifies his intention to shoot in any of the events after paying the entrance fee, a regular ticket or duplicate score card (furnished by the United States Revolver Association) is filled out and issued to him, which is his receipt for the entrance fee. His score need not necessarily be shot immediately after issuing the ticket. The ticket, however, gives him his right of priority in case he wishes to shoot at a certain time and there are other competitors who wish to shoot also at that time. Tickets not used are forfeited. The requisite number of targets will also be issued simultaneously with the score card. These must be numbered consecutively, they must have the competitors name and number of his score card written on them for identification, and must be shot in their numerical order. The targets are usually tacked at the corners on alternating frames covered with canvas with heavy paper pasted over it. Each target is left in position until the required number of shots have been fired a.t it, each shot being spotted and marked as fired [no pasters to be used]. When a string has been finished the target is lowered and the alternating target raised in position.
ISO
The
Pistol
and Revolver
completed the targets are broug-ht to the firing point and delivered to the range oflScer. When a competitor wishes to shoot his score, his arm must be inspected and passed by the officer in charge, who must see that it conforms with the riiles and requirements of the event in which it is entered. Competitors who wish to enter in any of the events should be urged to have their arms examined by the executive oflicer or committee in charge of the matches as soon as possible, so that in case there should be any exceptions made to the sights, the trigger-pull, or any other details, there will be an opportunity to have these exceptions corrected so as to comply with the requirements when the official test and inspection is made before shooting the score. In matches C and D the scorer should have a reliable stop watch, so that the timing will be accurate. It is well, whenever possible, to have two men time the competitor, so as to have an additional check. A new target must be furnished for each string of five shots at each range. According to the rules, if a competitor starts to shoot a string at any range and his arm becomes disabled from any cause, those shots which reach the target within fifteen seconds after the command ** Fire," will be counted as the complete score for the five shots. In the case of a disabled arm, the officer or committee in charge may allow the competitor to complete the remaining strings of his score with another arm. Shots on the paper target outside of the 4 ring count 3; shots missing the paper target count zero. After completing the score, when the duplicate score cards are filled out, the contestant takes the duplicate and the range officer retains the original for record. All original score cards and all the targets shot in the various events are to be carefully preserved and promptly at the close of the contest forwarded, carriage prepaid, to the United States Revolver Association, addressed to the secretary-treasurer. All unused targets and score cards are to be similarly forwarded to the secretary-treasurer with a complete detailed account of entrance fees, supplies, etc. In the Medal Competition only those targets that actually count for medals are to be witnessed, certified and forwarded to the After the score
is
secretary-treasurer for verification and record. In order that the condition?:; may be uniform and eliminate as much as possible the special conditions in regard to wind, etc., that may exist at the different places where the matches may be held, the shooters should be protected at the firing point by a shelter. This may be either the regular shooting house of the club, or, If the shooting is done in the open, by a suitable tent or temporary frame structure having an opening in the direction of the target; the other three sides being inclosed. The building or tent should be large enough to accommodate also the officer or committee in charge of the match, so that the shooter may be at all times in sight of the officer in charge of the range at the time the score is
Appendix made.
15^
A
table of suitable size should be provided near the firing point for holding ammunition and for the convenience of the competitor to clean his arm in those events where cleaning is allowed. The firing point should be plainly marked and so located as to be at least two feet from any timbers, guards, ropes, tables, etc.
mSTEUCTIONS TO EANGE OFFICERS IN CHARGE OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP CONTESTS OF THE U. S. E. A. Certified targets, score cards and reading matter will be furnished governor or other officer of the U. S. R. A. this Association. or local club, shooting or military organization, will be appointed in each locality where the matches are to be held to act as range officer, represent the Association, and have charge of the contests. This governor or officer shall personally measure the range to verify the distance and see that all the conditions of the matches are strictly complied with. He will also see that at least one other person is present to witness all the shooting and he shall certify to the correctness of each score and the conditions, by signing the score card when the score is completed, and all the targets of each competitor. The other duties in detail of the governor or officer in charge of the matches are as follows: When a competitor expresses his intention of entering a match, a score card is made out in his name and delivered to him on the payment of the entrance fee. These score cards are to be issued in numerical order, and when more than one contestant wishes to shoot at the same time, the man holding the first score card is entitled to the preference of position and time. When the contestant is ready to shoot, he hands his score card to the governor or other officer of the Association who thereupon issues the required targets numbered consecutively, with the name of the competitor and the number of his score card written on each target. The arm of the competitor is then inspected to make sure that it complies with the rules and regulations as given in the U. S. R. A. booklet. The sights must be carefully inspected and the trigger pull tested by weighing in just before the score is begun. The records for which blanks are provided on the score card with reference to the arm, ammunition, As etc., are then filled in and the first target placed in position. soon as the contestant begins his score, the time is taken from the firing of the first shot in matches and B and in the Indoor Championships, and the entire score must be completed within one hour from this time. In matches C and the time is taken from the command " Fire," and the five shots must be fired within 15 secThe announcing of intermediate times or seconds is not onds.
by
A
A
D
The
152 allowed.
and
B,
Pistol
and Revolver
Ten shots are to be fired at each target in matches and five shots at each target in matches C and D and
A in
the Indoor Championships. After the score is completed, the separate targets are scored and the value of the shots filled in the score card, making corrections from the targets, if mistakes have been made by the markers, in the order that the targets are shot. After filling in and signing the score cards, the duplicate is handed to the competitor and the original preserved for record. The targets are then signed by the governor and preserved until the expiration of the period during which the matches are held, when all targets, original score cards and other supplies are to be sent to the United States Revolver Association, addressed to the Secretary-Treasurer. It is recommended that all scores after being shot, verified, etc., be wrapped in paper in separate packages, marked with the competitor's name, and that no one be permitted to handle and examine these targets after they have been scored and certified to.
For information relative to state championships, U. S. R. A. medal competitions, etc., address the Secretary-Treasurer.
RECORDS The following records have been made under the United States Revolver Association rules since their adoption: Revolver, 50 yards 50 shots:
April Sept.
30
shots: April Sept.
26,
7,
26,
7,
1903,
1904,
1903,
1904,
J.
Dr.
J.
Dr.
E. I.
E. T.
Gorman, San Francisco,
Cal.
94—91—88—90-95 R. Calkins, Springfield, Mass. 8
8
8
9
9
10
10
10
10
9
9
9
9
10
10
10
10
10
8
9
9
10
10
10
10
10
10
6
8
9
9
9
9
10
10
10
7
8
8
9
9
9
10
10
10
Gorman, San Francisco,
10—92 10—96 10—96 10—91 10-90
458
465
Cal.
94—91—88 R. Calkins, Springfield, Mass. 92—96—96
273
284
20 shots:
10
April
26,
Sept.
7,
shots: J. E.
1903,
1904,
J.
Dr.
E. I.
Gorman, San Francisco,
Cal.
94-91 R. Calkins, Springfield, Mass. 92—96
Gorman, San Francisco,
Cal.,
April
26,
1903
185
188
94
Appendix
153
Military Revolver, Rapid Fire, 50 yards 75
25
shots; in strings of 5 shots in 15 seconds: Sept. 16, 1904, Thomas Anderton, Creedmoor, N. shots; in strings of 5 shots in 15 seconds: Sept., 1902,
Thomas Anderton, Sea
Y
585
N. J
Girt,
206
Revolver, 20 yards 50 shots:
March,
June
.30
1903,
11,
March
W.
1902,
4,
1904,
New
York, N. Y. 89—88—94—82-86 Dr. ^y. H. Luckett, New York, N. Y. 91—93—91—93—96 Sidney E. Sears, St. Louis, Mo. 95—96—96—95—96 E. Petty,
439
464
478
shots:
March,
June
W.
1902,
11,
March
4,
E. Petty,
New
York, N. Y. 89—88—94 York, N. Y. 91—93—91
1903,
Dr. A7. H. Euckett,
New
1904,
Sidney E. Sears,
Louis, Mo.
St.
95—96—96
271
275
287
20 shots:
March, 1902, W. E. Petty, New York, N. Y. 89—88 March, 1903, Dr. W. H. Luckett, New York, N. Y. 93—85.... June 11, 1903, Dr. W. H. Luckett, New York, N. Y. 91—93.... March 4, 1904, Sidney E. Sears, St. Louis, Mo. 95—96 10
177
178
184 191
shots:
March,
March June Nov.
1902, 4,
W. H. Luckett, New York, N. Sidney E. Sears, St. Louis, Mo
Y
Dr.
1904,
11,
1904,
15,
1907,
B. Crabtree, Springfield, C. C. Grossman, St. Louis, J.
93 96
Mass
98
Mo
100
Pistol, 50 yards 50 shots:
April
30
4,
1903,
Thomas Anderton, Walnut
shots: E. E. Patridge,
Hill,
Mass.
10
10
10
9
10
10
10
10
10
9
9
10
10
10
9
10
9
9
9
10
10
9
9
9
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
8
9
9
8
10
9
10
10
9
Walnut
Hill,
Mass.,
March
21,
10—99 9—94 10—96 9—99 10—92
1903.
96—96—95
Thomas Anderton, Walnut
Hill,
Mass., April
4,
480
287
1903.
99—94—96
289
The
154
Pistol
and Revolver
20 shots:
Walnut Hill, March 21, 1903. Thomas Anderton, Walnut Hill, Mass., April
E. E. Patridge,
96—96 4,
1903.
192
99—94..
193
10 shots:
Eugene E. Patridge, Walnut
Thomas Anderton, AValnut
Mass., March 21, 1903 Mass., April 4, 1903
Hill,
Hill,
96 99
Pistol, 20 yards 50 shots:
30
March,
1902,
Lieut. R. H. Sayre,
March,
1903,
Thomas
New
York, N. Y. 88—85—87—93—95 Anderton, Boston, Mass. 92—97—87—93—91
448 460
shots:
March,
1902,
Lieut. R. H. Sayre,
March,
1903,
Thomas
New
York, N. Y. 88—85—87 Anderton, Boston, Mass. 92—97—87
260 276
20 shots:
March, March,
New
York, N. Y.
1902,
Lieut. R. H. Sayre,
1903,
Thomas Anderton, Boston, Mass.
1903,
Thomas Anderton,
88—85 92—97
173 189
10 shots:
March,
March
May
5,
24,
1906,
Boston,
Mass
Y
Dietz, New York, N. J. B. Crabtree, Springfield, Mass
1906,
John A.
92
93 95
INDEX Accidents,
86,
Dedication,
105.
Accuracy of revolver,
45.
29,
Aiming-, 106 to 110. Air space for "dense" powders, 134,
3.
Disqualification, Double actions,
115. 104. 118.
Drawing arms, Duelling,
12,
56.
142.
Annual matches,
79,
143
115,
to
145.
Ammunition,
"Any" "Any"
Arms,
34 to 52, 147. pistol defined, 146.
revolver defined,
Exhibition shooting,
146.
30.
147.
15,
Artificial light,
Automatic
97.
pistol,
22,
23,
24,
26,
114.
Automatic revolver,
23.
20,
Finish of arms, Firing,
BB caps, 114. Bisley, 47. Blacking sights, 116. Bore, to measure, 131. Bullets, 126. Bullets stuck in barrels,
103.
146.
Fit of arms, 101. Fit of bullets, 130. " Flinching," 24, 89, 104. Fluids, cleaning, 122.
Fluxing
lead,
Fouling,
34,
127.
43,
119,
51,
Franco-American to "
121.
matches,
71.
Freak
"
arms,
30.
113.
G Gallery charges, 139 to 142, Gallery ranges, 95 to 98,
Care in handling arms, Carrying arms, 119.
"
105.
Gas cutting,"
Cartridges, center fire, 38. Cartridges, rim fire, 35. Central-fire ammunition, 38.
Championship matches,
H
143
to
to be avoided,
16,
145.
Cheap arms, 100.
Classification of arms, 146. Cleaning and care of arms, 121 to
124, 143. 90. Coaching, 111.
Competing in matches, Confinement of powder, Crimping
82,
Handles or stocks, Hardening bullets,
103. 131.
Hat
for shooting, 116. Hints for beginners, 1(X). Holding position, 102, 110.
Holster weapons,
Hunting charges,
Clubs,
Corrosion,
1-30.
32, 50.
118.
114. 134.
123.
shells, 135.
International matches,
68
to
71.
Tbe
156
Pistol
and Revolver R
Ladies' clubs, 88. Ladies, pistol shooting for, Larg-e calibers, 80. Leading* of barrel, 113. Long range shooting, 72. Lubricant, 36, 132.
Lubricating bullets,
Rapid 86.
Range
117.
90.
officers, 115, 151.
Records, 65, 67, 68, 148, 152. Record, definition of, 68. Reduced charges, 139 to 142. Reloading ammunition, 124
142.
132,
shooting,
fire
Ranges,
to
142.
Revolver practice,
M
Metal-cased bullets, Military arms, 16.
Muzzle loading pistol, Muzzle velocities, 49.
Revolver, definition
of,
Rim
fire
35.
Rule
bullets, 140 to 142. to correct sights. 111. 99, 146 to 151.
cartridges,
Rules, Rust,
146.
82,
123.
85,
130.
11.
N
Scoring,
National Guard revolver prac76.
National organizations, 30. National Rifie Association,
15.
122.
Opening mouth of
15,
Round
51.
Misfires, .22-cal., 114. Moulding bullets, 127 to
Oils,
119,
lice, 82.
105. 148. 121, 143, 144, 145. powder, 138. 92,
Measuring
tice,
79,
120.
Revolver practice for the po-
Manipulation,
Marking, Matches,
to
73
shells. 137.
80,
148.
Second hand arms,
100.
Selecting arms, 100. Self-lubricating bullets, Shelter for contestants,
47.
150.
Shooting matches,
121. Shells, 125, 136, 137, 140. Shooting rules, 99, 146. Sights, 16, 53, 54, 111, 112, Sizing bullets, 132.
147.
Small bull's-eyes undesirable, 81. Smokeless charges (new), 50. Smokeless powder, 48, 133 to 136. Spectacles, 116. " Spotting," 94.
Standard American target, 79.
Paine-Bennett match, Paine sights. 54. Patridge sight, 54. Penetration, 49. Physical condition
Stopping power,
66.
Supervision,
16,
52.
148.
important,
117.
Pistols, 25. Pistol, definition of, 15, 146. Pistol shooting for ladies, 86.
Targets,
Pocket arms,
Target arms,
31,
Position, 55, 106, Possibles, 80.
32,
146.
118,
78,
79, 24.
80,
81,
147.
Target, definition of, 61. Target shooting, 61, 71, 111.
147.
Powders, 132 to 136. Powder measures, 138. Primers, 120, 125. Practice shooting, 73 to Proportion of charges, Protests, 115, 148. Pulling the trigger, Pull of trigger, 103,
74,
Tests,
51,
66.
Ties, 148. 81, 35.
109, 112.
84.
110.
Timing, 143. Tin for bullets,
127.
Training, 117. Trick shooting,
30.
Trigger ''
pull, 103, 112,
Trolleys,"
96.
147.
78,
Index
157
u United States United States practice,
73.
Army Army Army
medals, 75. regulation
United States target, 74. United States Navy regulation practice,
United
75.
States
ciation,
68,
79,
Revolver Asso143 to 151.
Ventilation,
79.
W Weather
conditions, trophy, 67.
Winan's Wind, 116, 117. Wrong ammunition,
116.
112.
!
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