[Roy]

Hi Gents,

I though it might be interesting to go into a little more explanation on the Thomas Patent revolver mechanism - three pics attached.

I was fortunate enough to get hold of an original 1869 patent for this (shown in the pics). The mechanism (which still works perfectly today) required one to rotate the barrel (using the under-barrel knob) and manipulate it (along with the cylinder) forward (see last photo). This allowed for spent cases to fall free while retaining un-fired cartridges.

The Galand mechanism was popular on the continent. While the Merwin & Hulbert along with Smith & Wesson's top break were popular in the US. The Thomas patent was the British solution (along with the later design of top-break used by Webley). Ultimately they would all fall by the wayside by the swing out cylinder still in use today.

Cheerio,

Roy