IMPROVEMENTS IN REVOLVING CYLINDER PISTOLS MEMORAND
Year: 1878

page_text: In the Matter of Letters Patent granted to William Robert Lake, of the
Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings,
London, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN REVOLVING CYLINDER
PISTOLS." A communication from abroad by Owen Jones, of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, United States of America. Dated the 14th February
1878, No. 624.
DISCLAIMER AND MEMORANDUM OF ALTERATION proposed to be
entered by the said William Robert Lake.
WHEREAS Her most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letters Patent
bearing date the 14th day of February, in the year of our Lord, One thousand
eight hundred and seventy eight, in the forty first year of Her reign, did, for
Herself, Her heirs and successors, give and grant unto unto me, the said William
Robert Lake, my executors, administrators, and assigns, the sole privilege of making,
using, exercising, and vending, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, the said Invention for
IMPROVEMENTS IN REVOLVING CYLINDER PISTOLS," for and during the term of
fourteen years, thence next ensuing, a Complete Specification of which Invention
was filed with the Petition for the said Letters Patent;
And whereas, since the filing of the said Specification, I have been advised that
certain portions of the Invention set forth in the description and claiming clauses
of the said Specification were not new in respect of the public knowledge and use
thereof at the date of the said application, and that certain other portions of the
description were ambiguous by reason of the inaccuracy of the language thereof.
NOW KNOW YE therefore that I, the said William Robert Jake, by, and with the
consent of Her Majesty's Solicitor General, do alter and amend the said Specification
as follows, that is to say:-Referring to the Queen's Printer's copy of the said
Specification, and to page 1 of the same, I strike out the whole of the matter
contained in lines 16, 17, 18 and 19. In page 2, line 26, I strike out the words
The tool tube will now be explained." In page 3, line 6, I strike out the word
discharge" and substitute therefor the word "eject," and I make the same alteration
in page 4, line 30.
In page 3, line 41, after the letter "e" I strike out "5" and
insert "3." In page 5, lines 6 and 13, I strike out the word " discharged" anḍ
"

page_text: substitute therefor the word "ejected." In page 6, lines 47 and 53, I strike out
the word "discharging" and substitute therefor the word "ejecting." In page 7,
line 29, I strike out the word "discharge " and substitute therefor the word "eject."
In line 53, after the word "Figures" I strike out "1 to 6" and substitute therefor
"3 and 4," and after the word "Drawings" I strike out the word "consisting" and
insert the words "as and." In line 54, I strike out the words "mainly of the
"improved catch, and the tool tube attached to the barrel." In page 8, line 2, I
strike out after the word "Drawings" the words "as set forth in the following
"clauses." I strike out the whole of the mutter contained in lines 3, 4, 5 and 6.
I strike out the word "Also," commencing line 7, and I strike out the whole of the
maiter contained in and between lines 11 and 35. In line 36 I strike out the word
* Fourth" and substitute therefor the word "Third." In line 38 I strike out the
word "Fifth" and substitute therefor the word "Fourth." In line 42, after the
word "connections" I strike out the words "as above described and insert the
words by means of." In line 43 I strike out the words "Also in combination
with," and in the same line after the word "studs" I insert the word "and," and
I strike out the whole of the matter contained in lines 45 and 46, and in lines 49,
50, 51, and 52.
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And in order that the effect of the said Disclaimer and Memorandum of Alter-
ation may be fully understood, 1 annex a copy of the said Specification (omitting
the introductory and concluding clauses thereof) as it will appear when such Dis-
claimer has been made.
"This Invention consists,--
First. In certain improvements upon the pistol described in the Specification of
former Letters Patent, dated 7th July A.D. 1876, No. 2777.
"Secondly. In certain modifications of the said pistol, as fully hereinafter
❝ described.
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"In the accompanying Drawings,
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Figures 1 to 6" are various views of the pistol described in the said former
Specification with certain improvements applied thereto as will now be fully
❝ described.
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"
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"
"
"A, Figures 1, 2, 4, and 5 represents the stock or frame provided with the pro-
jecting ears a, a, having a transverse central opening, as shewn in Figure 4.
"B represents the catch piece proper, consisting of the transverse cylindrical
pin b adapted to slide in the openings of the ears, a, and the lever arm b¹
pivoted at the point be as shewn.
The cylindrical pin it will be observed is provided with an inclined face ³,
the purpose of which will be hereinafter explained.
"A spring of any suitable construction is employed to return the lever arm b' to
its normal position after it has been moved for any purpose.
C, Figure 2, represents the lever barrel, having the strap or bar c provided at
its rear end with an annular projection c¹ and a dependent wedge piece c², as
"shewn.
"
"
"The operation of these parts will be readily understood.
When the barrel is
in its normal position, as represented in Figure 1, the catch may be actuated to
release the same by pushing in the thumb piece of the lever arm b¹, by which
action the cylindrical pin will be withdrawn from the opening of the projection
e of the lever barrel, and the latter consequently being released may be tilted on
its hinge.
"When the barrel has been tilted and it is desired to return the same to its
"normal position it may be simply swung on its pivot or hinge to its place, as the
"catch will act automatically to securely lock the same in its proper position.
"This automatic action is accomplished in the following manner, that is to say :-
The cylindrical pin , which normally is held by the pressure of the spring of the
"lever arm b¹ in the position shewn in Figure 5, is moved out of position to permit
"the entrance of the projection c¹ into its proper place between the ears a, a, of

page_text: "the stock A by the contact of the wedge pin c upon the lever barrel with the
"inclined face bs of the pin. When, however, the projection has passed fully into
"its place its opening is brought into line with the cylindrical pin b, and the latter
"being free to act is caused to enter the same by the reaction of the pressure spring
" of the lever arm b¹.
" manner.
"D, Figures 1 and 2, represents a tube of convenient size and length, and which
"is rigidly secured to the barrel block and barrel below the latter in any suitable
represents a cap or cover adapted to close the open end of the tube,
"which may be removably secured to the latter by means of a screw thread or
"hayonet joint as may be preferred. d¹, Figure 2, represents a recess in the cap
"adapted to secure either end of the screwdriver blade ³, hereinafter described.
"When the parts are united, as shewn in Figure 2, the cap serves as a proper
"handle for the blade.
"d2, Figures 2, 6, and 6ª, represents a wiping rod, consisting of independent
"sections of suitable length to lie in the tube, which are readily united for use
"when desired by screwing the same together, as shewn in Figure 6; d³, Figures
2, 2, and 6, represents the aforesaid screw driver blade, each end of which is
adapted for use, one end being suitable for smaller screws and the other for larger
screws, as shewn.
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"Certain minor details of construction will now be described.
"a', Figure 4, represents a friction roller which may be located upon the pin a²,
"Figures 3 and 4, of the lever barrel for the purpose of reducing the friction of its
"movement in the slot of the cylinder link a³.
"a, Figures 3 and 4, represents a removable stop pin held at its ends in
"openings in the lever arm, and which extends through a recess a³ of the frame
"and serves to arrest the tilting movement of the lever barrel at the proper point, this
"result being accomplished at the proper time by the contact of the pin with the wall
" of the recess. By the simple removal of this pin a further movement of the lever
"barrel is permitted, in consequence of which the cylinder may be removed from
"the centre pin if desired.
"Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, are various views of one modification of
"this Invention, which will now be described.
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"The said Invention as here shown consists mainly in the combination of
"certain
independent mechanism for extracting the cartridge shells, with
independent mechanism for changing the shape or position of a portion of the
"cartridge shell to bring it within the range of the extracting mechanism. It
"consists further in certain details of construction which in connection with the
foregoing will be fully hereinafter described.
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"In these Figures of the Drawings,-
"Figure 7 represents a partial sectional elevation of the loaded pistol with one
"of the cartridges exploded.
"
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"Figure 8 is a similar view with the cylinder moved into position to eject the
cartridge.
(6
Figure 9 is a view of the said cylinder detached, with the cartridges in place.
Figures 10 and 11 illustrate the relative positions in the cylinder of the
cartridges, and the extracting mechanism.
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Figure 12 is a partial view of the loaded cylinder.
"And Figures 13 and 14 are views of the extracting sleeve and centre pin.
"The cartridges having been first arranged in the cylinder in such manner as to
be entirely independent of the extractor, but in close proximity thereto, are then
"successively exploded in the usual manner by the impact of the hammer. By
"this impact also a portion of the cartridge shell is forced out of its normal shape
"or position and caused to engage with the extractor, so that when the proper
"devices are actuated it may be thrown out in the usual manner.
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E, Figures 7 and 8, represents the frame of the pistol, and e, the barrel, which
may he constructed in any suitable manner.
"e, Figures 7 and 14, represents a centre pin projecting forward from the

page_text: “frame, and which is screwed into place in the usual manner, and is provided with
the head e as shewn.
"
³, Figures 7 and 13, represents a sleeve located on the pin between the head e-
"and the frame and which is adapted to turn freely thereon. It is provided at its
<< extreme rear end with a ratchet face et, Figure 13", and adjacent thereto with an
"annular flange or shoulder and an annular groove or recess e as shewn.
"e", Figures 8 and 13, represents a stud or projection near its front end, by means
"of which rigid connection is made with the cylinder, as far as revolution is
"concerned, without affecting the freedom of its longitudinal movement.
es, Figures 8, 11, and 12, represents the cylinder constructed in the usual well
"known or other proper manner, but provided with a longitudinal groove or
"recess and an annular recess elo at its rear end.
"e", Figure 8, represents the haminer, which is constructed generally in the usual
6: manner and operated in the ordinary way, but which is provided with an exploding
"point el, shown in dotted lines, so arranged as to strike when released by the
"trigger behind the shoulder of the extractor sleeve down into the recess.
"represents the cartridge shell, which may be of the usual well-known construction,
"but which is preferably constructed as hereinafter described.
"When the parts are in their proper position the cartridges e¹s and the extracting
"device are independently held in the cylinder, the former not being either in
contact with the latter or within the line of its action, because the annular flange es
of the latter occupies a central space which lies wholly within the circle wherein
the cartridges are located, as shewn. The upper cartridge a however is in
❝ contact, it will be observed, with the flange of the extracting device,
the same being represented as having been exploded. The operation will be
readily understood. The pistol after having been properly loaded may be fired in
the usual manner. By the descent of the hammer the cartridges are exploded,
but furthermore a portion of the flange is turned over into such position as to
project or extend behind the shoulder or flange of the extractor, as represented
« in the cartridge a*, Figure 10, and in all the cartridges, Figure 11. In conse-
"quence of this change of shape or position it follows that when the cylinder is
drawn forward the shell cannot move with it because it is held by the contact
"of its projecting portion with the fixed shoulder of the extractor. Hence the shell
"may be extracted by simply drawing the cylinder away from it in the usual well-
"known inanner. It will be observed that only the shell which is struck by the
"hammer will be caused to engage with the extractor, hence the loaded shells will
"never be disturbed under any circumstances.
"Certain forins of cartridges which may be employed in connection with the
"extracting mechanism are represented in Figures 15, 16, and 17, and will now be
"described. F represents a cartridge which may be constructed in any suitable
"manner, but is essentially provided with the usual annular flange f, and also with
an auxiliary annular flange f¹ extending in a rearward direction, as shewn ; ƒ 2
"represents a swell or projection by means of which the cartridge is extended in a
"rearward direction for the purpose of obtaining a proper bearing against the
"recoil shield.
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"If desired, also, the auxiliary flange of the cartridge may be made with
❝hexagonal or polygonal sides, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, for the purpose of
adapting it to present a straight instead of a curved surface to the action of the
"hammer head.
"
"The cartridge may be either ceutral or rim fire, as preferred. If, however, a
"central fire cartridge is employed a projection to explode the same must be added
"to the hammer. By means of the above described construction the cartridge is
"adapted for use in connection with the mechanism berein before specified; the
"auxiliary flange, it will be understood, when in its place furnishes inetal in the
proper position to be acted upon by the hammer head and to be turned down
"into the recess of the extractor. Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21, are views of another
modification of my Invention, which will now be described,
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page_text: "The said Invention, as here shewn, consists mainly, first, in the combination
"with a relatively fixed extractor plate, a sliding cylinder, and tilting barrel of
"intermediate rack mechanism, for uniting the barrel to the cylinder, and commu-
"nicating the movement of the former to the latter without lost motion; and,
secondly, in certain details of construction, which in connection with the foregoing
"will be fully hereinafter described.
.66
"
"
"In the last named Figures of the Drawings,-
"Figure 18 represents a partial sectional elevation of my Invention, with the
'cylinder drawn out to eject a cartridge shell, the position of the loaded cartridge
being indicated in dotted lines.
"Figure 19 represents a similar view, with the cylinder loaded and ready for
firing.
"Figure 20 is a view representing the position of the rack device relatively to
"the hinge joint of the barrel.
"And Figure 21 is a view representing the position of the segmental rack
"bar when thrown forward by its spring to engage with the sleeve of the
cylinder.
"G, Figures 18 and 19, represents the frame of the pistol constructed in any
"suitable manner, and of any proper size, but provided essentially below with a .
"bar g, to which the barrel is hinged, as shewn, and above with a locking socket '
"of any proper construction.
"H represents the centre pin rigidly secured at its rear end to the frame G ;
"it is provided at its rear end with a recess adapted to receive and hold the
"extractor plate h', which is free to revolve thereon, as shewn; 2 represents the
"front end of the pin of a diameter less than that of its rear portion for purposes
"herein after explained.
"I represents the cylinder constructed generally in the usual well known, or
"other suitable manner, but provided essentially with a central recess i adapted to
"receive the main portion of the centre pin, and a projecting sleeve i¹ adapted to
"receive the front end h of the pin, the said sleeve being provided upon its exterior
"surface with a series of collars or annular teeth or flanges 2, as shown.
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"J represents the barrel hinged in any suitable inanner to the frame G, and
having the locking bar j and recess j¹, as shewn.
"K represents a segmental rack bar or block pivoted within the recess by
means of the pin k, as shewn; its teeth are adapted to engage with the annular
"teeth upon the sleeve, as shewn; represents a pin, by means of which the
"rack bar K is secured in its proper position; represents a spring, by means of
"which the rack bar, when its pin is removed, and the parts are disconnected, is
"thrown backward, as shewn in Figure 21, into proper position to engage with
"the sleeve when the disconnected parts are again brought together.
"The operation of my extractor will be readily understood. The pistol having
"been fired, the cartridge shells may be ejected by simply unlocking the catch and
"tilting the barrel.
"By the movement of the barrel the said rack bar is caused to actuate the
cylinder and draw it away from the relatively fixed extractor plate, and hence
the shells held thereby being left unsupported fall out.
"It will be observed, as indicated in Figure 18, that the cylinder has a longi-
tudinal movement slightly in excess of the length of the cartridge shells, and
hence these are ejected with absolute certainty when the barrel is tilted. This
movement of the cylinder, however, on the other hand does not equal the length
of a loaded shell, as shewn, in the same Figure; hence it follows that while the
spent shells may be extracted at any time with absolute certainty, the loaded
shells cannot by any possibility be extracted or drawn out.
"It will be observed also, as indicated in Figure 20, that the rack bar is a
segment of a circle x struck from the hinge point 2 as a centre, and that the
lower line of the sleeve of the barrel cuts this circle at its highest point, in

page_text: "
consequence of which it follows that when the barrel is tilted on its hinge the
" teeth of the rack bar, rigidly attached thereto by means of its pins, move in the
"are of a circle, coinciding at the point of contact with the horizontal line of the
"sleeve's movement, and hence they successively act upon the corresponding teeth
"of the sleeve, and give the latter movement in a uniform straight line without
"strain or without lost motion.*
"It will be observed also that by means of the annular teeth or flanges of the
"sleeve the said cylinder is permitted freely to revolve.
"Some of the advantages of the above described construction are as follows:-
"The cylinder is actuated to extract the cartridges without 'lost motion' by
"action of the barrel as a lever, so that tightly jamined cartridges are easily and
quickly extracted. The parts employed are few in number and simple in
"construction, so that the cost of manufacture is slight, and there is no special
liability to derangement.
Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28, are views of another modification of my
"Invention, which will now be described.
"This part of the said Invention consists mainly,-
"First. In the combination of the lever barrel (by means of which the cylinder
"is actuated) with the said cylinder, the parts being directly connected without
independent intermediate parts.
$
"
"Secondly. In the combination with the tilting lever barrel of a movable stop,
"adapted to arrest the tilting barrel at the end of its normal movement for
'discharging the cartridges, and also, when properly actuated, to permit further
movement for the purpose of allowing the said cylinder to be removed from the
" centre pin.
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"And, Thirdly. In the combination with the lever barrel of a catch of peculiar
"construction.
"It consists further in certain details of construction, which in connection with
"the foregoing will be fully hereinafter described.
"In the Drawings illustrating this part of my Invention,―
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Figure 22 represents a side elevation of a pistol having my improvements
"applied thereto, with the barrel in its closed position.
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Figure 23 is a similar view shewing the barrel open.
"Figure 24 is a similar view with the barrel tilted beyond its normal position to
"permit the removal of the cylinder.
"And Figures 25, 26, 27, and 28, shew details of various parts.
"The main portions of the revolver not forming part of this Invention may be
"constructed in a similar manner to the corresponding parts previously herein
" described.
"The novel features of this modification of my Invention will be described for
"convenience and clearness under separate beads as follows, namely:-
"
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"First. The lever barrel and cylinder.
"Second. The lever barrel and moveable stop.
"Third. The lever barrel and catch.
"First. The lever barrel and cylinder. 1, Figure 22, represents the lever barrel
"provided with the downwardly extending portion hinged to the lower bar or
strap by means of the pivot pin 12, as shewn; 1, Figures 23 and 24, represents
a recess formed in the rear end of the barrel block, and 14, 14, Figures 22 and 27,
"studs or pins projecting from the wall or side, as shewn. These studs may either
"form a solid portion of the barrel block, or may consist of screws inserted from
"the outside, as shewn; the latter construction is preferred, because the screws
"before insertion can be case-hardened to make them more durable under wear.
"When inserted in place, however, they form practically a solid portion of the
" barrel.
"M, Figures 23 and 24, represents the centre pin rigidly secured at its rear end
"to the frame; N represents the cylinder constructed in any suitable manner, but

page_text: essentially provided in front with an extended hollow sleeve n, having a single
annular groove or recess n¹, as shown.
"The cylinder and lever barrel properly united are represented in Figure 22.
"Union of the parts is effected it will be observed by the studs 14 of the barrel
and the sleeve n of the cylinder, the former resting in the annular groove of the
latter, as shown. By means of this construction the parts are so united that the
cylinder is compelled to move in a iongitudinal direction with the barrel when
"the latter is tilted, but is free to revolve upon its centre pin without
"interference.
"
"The connection is such also that the necessary play incidental to the union of
two parts moving in different lines is obtained in a simple manner, the studs 1, 1,
"rising and falling as the barrel is tilted in the annular groove of the horizontally
moving cylinder to describe the are of a circle struck from the pivot pin 12
The advantages of this special construction will be readily
"
as a centre.
understood.
"The barrel and cylinder are attached directly together without intermediate
auxiliary connecting devices, in consequence of which the number of parts is
"reduced and the arm much simplified and improved.
"
<
Secondly. The lever barrel and moveable stop, Figures 23 and 24, represents
a stop projection formned upon the part of the barrel; 0) represents a moveable
stop consisting of a transverse plate o, Figures 22 and 23, extending beyond the
"solid portion of the lower bar or strap and partially over the hinge, as shewn,
"and a longitudinal lever arm ol lying in a proper recess of the bar, the latter
being secured in place by a pivot pin o², as shewn; o represents an extended
portion of the cylinder bolt spring by means of which the stop plate is ordinarily
held in its normal position, as shewn in Figures 22 and 23.
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".
"
$1
"The operation of this mechanism is as follows:-When the lever arm o¹ of the
stop O is not moved, and the plate o consequently remains in its normal position,
"the lever barrel when tilted will be arrested at the end of its normal movement
for ejecting the cartridge shells by the contact of its stop projection
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with the
plate o, as shewn in Figure 23. When the parts are in this position the cylinder
When however the
"is securely held upon the centre pin and cannot be removed.
"lever arın o¹ is properly actuated the plate o will be thrown outward beyond the
line of movement of the stop projection of the part 7 of the barrel, as shewn
in Figure 24; heuce when the barrel is tilted the projection will not engage
" with the plate at the end of its normal movement for ejecting the cartridge
"shells.
The stop plate is thus made inoperative for the time being, and hence
the tilting movement of the barrel may be continued until the studs *, * move
"out of the annular groove of the cylinder and release the same, so that it may be
removed from the centre pin. The cylinder is readily placed when desired by
sliding the same upon the centre pin, and tilting the barrel in such manner as to
cause its studs to engage with the groove of the sleeve n.
"The advantages of this construction will be readily understood.
: :
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The cylinder
is positively held against accidental displacement, and yet is removed with great.
facility when desired.
16
Thirdly. The lever barrel and catch. p, p, Figures 23 and 25, represent ears
projecting upward from the side plates of the frame, each being provided with a
slot p, p, as shewn.
"P represents a catch piece consisting of a trausverse bar p having at one end
a pivot opening p, and at the other an angular thumb-piece p6, as shewn.
This
"catch piece is represented in position in Figure 25. One end, it will be observed,
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is pivoted in the slot p², while the other end extends through the elongated slot p³,
" as shown.
"The thumb-piece is curved upon its inner side to correspond with the curvature
"of the recess p in which it moves.
有
ps represents a spring of any proper construction, by means of which the

page_text: "
::
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.:
::
<
16
catch-piece after being actuated is returned to its normal position; Q, Figures 23
and 26, represents a projecting portion of the inner end of the barrel, extending
rearward in a horizontal direction, and which is provided with the horizontal
recess adapted to receive the transverse bar of the catch-piece, as shown;
R represents a projecting portion extending downward at an angle in such a
manner as to form an inclined planer terminating above at the recess, as
sbewn; represents an opening extending from front to rear through the
portion R, which is adapted to receive the hammer head when the latter is in
position to explode the cartridge, as shewn in dotted lines, Figure 22.
"The operation of this mechanisın will be readily understood. When the lever
"barrel after having been tilted to eject the cartridges or for other purpose is
retilted to return it to its normal locked position, the inclined face of its pro-
jection R will come in contact with the pivoted catch p', as shewn in dotted
lines, Figure 23, and turn the same on its pivot out of the line of the projection's
movement, so that proper space is afforded for its passage.
When the proper
point is reached however the horizontal recess q will be opposite the transverse
catch-piece p', and the latter having been released by the passage beyond it of
"the projection R will be moved into the same by the re-action of the spring ps,
and thus act to securely lock the barrel in place. The opening in the pro-
jection R is so arranged relatively to the hammer head that the latter when in
position to explode the cartridge bears against its lowest edge, as shewn in
dotted lines in Figure 22. By reason of this construction and arrangement it
"follows that the cartridge cannot be exploded unless the projection R, and con-
sequently the barrel attached thereto, are in the proper locked position. If how-
ever the said barrel is nearly, but not entirely closed, the same will be brought
to its locked position by the descent of the hammer before the explosion takes
place, the inclined face of the latter acting upon the projection Q to force it down
"into its proper place.
"
"
"
+1
6
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"The catch is exceedingly simple in its construction and operation, and yet
possesses great strength. It extends entirely across the projection of the barrel,
and is strongly held at each end against strain. The cartridges cannot be
exploded by the hammer head unless the barrel is in its locked position.
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Having thus fully described the said Invention as communicated to me by my
foreign correspondent and the manner of performing the same, I wish it under-
"stood that I claim,-
"First. The improvements illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 of the Drawings, as
"and for the purposes specified.
"Second. The improvements illustrated in Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14,
" of the Drawings, that is to say :-
6:
"The combination of the following elements, namely, an independent extractor,
a cylinder as described, adapted to hold the cartridges out of the line of action
" of the extractor and mechanism, as described, adapted to act on the rim of the
shell, and cause it to engage with the said extractor.
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Third. The improvements shewn in Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the Drawings,
" and as set forth in the description of these Figures.
"Fourth. The improvements illustrated in Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28,
"of the Drawings, and cousisting in the following devices or contrivances, that is
" to say :-
4
"The combination of the lever barrel with the cylinder without intermediate
"connections by means of the lever barrel having the studs, and the cylinder 5
having the annular groove, as above described.
of
"
Also, in combination with a tilting lever barrel, a moveable stop, as above
" described.
"Also, in combination with the recessed arm of the lever barrel, the pivoted
"catch-piece extending across the arm, and held at each of its ends, as above 5
❝ described.

page_text: "Also, in combination with the recessed arm and catch-piece, the projection and
"hammer head, as above described."
In witness whereof, I, the said William Robert Lake, have hereunto set
my hand and seal, this Twenty fifth day of March, in the year of our
Lord One thousand eight hundred and eighty.
I hereby grant my fiat, giving leave to the above named William Robert
Lake, to file in the Great Seal Patent Office, with the Specification to which the
10 same relates the above written Disclaimer and Memorandum of Alteration.
HARDINCE a CIRRADA

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Robert Lake, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake,
& Co., Patent Agents, Southampton Buildings, London, for the Invention of
IMPROVEMENTS IN REVOLVING CYLINDER PISTOLS." A communication from
abroad by Owen Jones, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of
America.
Sealed the 5th April 1878, and dated the 14th February 1878.
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION filed by the said William Robert Lake at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 14th February 1878.
WILLIAM ROBERT LAKE, of the Firm of Haseltine, Lake, & Co., Patent Agents,
IMPROVEMENTS IN REVOLVING CYLINDER
Southampton Buildings, London.
PISTOLS." A cominunication from abroad by Owen Jones, of Philadelphia, l'eun-
sylvania, United States of Ainerica.
This Invention consists,-
First. In certain improvements upon the pistol described in the Specification of
former Letters Patent, dated 7th July, A.D. 1876, No. 2777.
Secondly. In certain modifications of the said pistol, as fully herein-after
described.
In the accompanying Drawings,—
Figures 1 to 6ª are various views of the pistol described in the said former
Specification, with certain improvements applied thereto, as will now be fully
described.
These improvements consist mainly, first, in a catch of peculiar construction for
locking the lever barrel in its normal position; and secondly, in a tube of peculiar
construction which is combined with the barrel to form a receptacle for tools.
This catch will now be described.
A, Figures 1, 2, 4, and 5, represents the stock or frame provided with the pro-
jecting ears a, a, having a transverse central opening, as shown in Figure 4.
B represents the catch piece proper, consisting of the transverse cylindrical pin b

page_text: adapted to slide in the openings of the ears a, a, and the lever arın b¹ pivoted at the
point b³ as shown.
The cylindrical pin b it will be observed is provided with an inclined face b the
purpose of which will be herein-after explained.
A spring of any suitable construction is employed to return the lever arın b¹ to
it normal position after it has been moved for any purpose.
C. Figure 2, represents the lever barrel, having the strap or bar c provided at its
rear end with an annular projection c¹ and a dependent wedge piece c, as shown.
The operation of these parts will be readily understood." When the barrel is in
its normal position, as represented in Figure 1; the catch may be actuated to release
the same by pushing in the thumb piece of the lever arın 6, by which action the
cylindrical più will be withdrawn from the opening of the projection c¹ of the lever
barrel, and the latter consequently being released may be tilted on its hinge.
When the barrel has been tilted and it is desired to return the same to its normal
position it may be simply swung on its pivot or hinge to its place, as the catch will
act automatically to securely lock the same in its proper position.
This automatic action is accomplished in the following manner, that is to say :-
The cylindrical pin b, which normally is held by the pressure of the spring of the
lever arm 61, in the position shown in Figure 5, is moved out of position to permit
the entrance of the projection e¹ into its proper place between the ears, t, of the
stock A by the contact of the wedge pin upon the lever barrel with the inclined
face 63 of the pin. When however the projection has passed fully into its place its
opening is brought into line with the cylindrical pin b, and the latter being free to
act, is caused to enter the same by the reaction of the pressure spring of the lever
arm b¹.
The tool tube will now be explained.
D, Figures 1 and 2, represents a tube of convenient size and length, and which is
rigidly secured to the barrel block and barrel below the latter in any suitable
manner. d represents a cap or cover adapted to close the open end of the tube,
which may be removably secured to the latter by means of a screw thread or
by o net joint, as may be preferred. ', Figure 2ª, represents a recess in the cap
adapted to secure either end of the screwdriver blade, herein-after described.
When the parts are united, as shown in Figure 2", the cap serves as a proper
handle for the blade.
:
d², Figures 2, 6, and 6ª, represents a wiping rod, consisting of independent sections
of suitable length to lie in the tube, which are readily united for use when desired
by screwing the same together, as shown in Figure 6. 3, Figures 2, 24, and 6.
represents the aforesaid screwdriver blade, each end of which is adapted for use, one
end being suitable for smaller screws and the other for larger screws, as shown.
Certain minor details of construction will now be described.
al, Figure 4, represents a friction roller which may be located upon the pin a²,
Figures 3 and 4, of the lever barrel for the purpose of reducing the friction of its
movement in the slot of the cylinder link a³.
a, Figures 3 and 4, represents a removable stop pin held at its ends in openings
in the lever arin, and which extends through a recess of the frame, and serves to
arrest the tilting movement of the lever barrel at the proper point, this result being
accomplished at the proper time by the contact of the pin with the wall of the
recess. By the simple removal of this pin a further movement of the lever barrel
is permitted in consequence of which the cylinder may be removed from the centre
pin if desired.
Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, are various views of one modification of
this Invention, which will now be described.
The said Invention as here shown consists mainly in the combination of certain
independent mechanism for extracting the cartridge shells, with independent
mechanism for changing the shape or position of a portion of the cartridge shell to
bring it within the range of the extracting mechanism. It consists further in certain

page_text: alter described.
In these Figures of the Drawings,—
Figure 7 represents a partial sectional elevation of the loaded pistol with one of
the cartridges exploded.
Figure 8 is a similar view with the cylinder moved into position to discharge the
cartridge.
Figure 9 is a view of the said cylinder detached, with the cartridges in place.
Figures 10 and 11 illustrate the relative positions in the cylinder of the cartridges,
and the extracting mechanism.
Figure 12 is a partial view of the loaded cylinder.
And Figures 13 and 14 are views of the extracting sleeve and centre pin.
The cartridges having been first arranged in the cylinder in such manner as to be
entirely independent of the extractor, but in close proximity thereto, are then suc-
cessively exploded in the usual manner by the impact of the hammer. By this
impact also a portion of the cartridge shell is forced out of its normal shape or
position and caused to engage with the extractor, so that when the proper devices
are actuated it may be thrown out in the usual manner.
E, Figures 7 and 8, represents the frame of the pistol, and the barrel, which
may be constructed in any suitable manner.
el, Figures 7 and 14, represents a centre pin projecting forward from the frame,
and which is screwed into place in the usual inanner, and is provided with the head e²,
as shown.
3, Figures 7 and 13, represents a sleeve located on the pin between the head e²
and the frame, and which is adapted to turn freely thereon. It is provided at its
extreme rear end with a ratchet face et, Figure 13, and adjacent thereto with an
annular flange or shoulder e, and an annular groove or recess e", as shewn.
e, Figures 8 and 13, represents a stud or projection near its front end, by means
of which rigid connection is made with the cylinder. as far as revolution is con-
cerned, without affecting the freedom of its longitudinal movement.
e8, Figures 8, 11, and 12, represents the cylinder constructed in the usual well
known or other proper manner, but provided with a longitudinal groove or recess
e, and an annular recess e10 at its rear end.
el, Figure 8, represents the hammer, which is constructed generally in the usual
manner, and operated in the ordinary way, but which is provided with an exploding
point, shown in dotted lines, so arranged as to strike, when released by the
trigger behind the shoulder of the extractor sleeve, down into the recess.
els re-
presents the cartridge shell, which may be of the usual well-known construction, but
which is preferably constructed as herein-after described.
When the parts are in their proper position, the cartridges e¹s and the extracting
device are independently held in the cylinder, the former not being either in
contact with the latter, or within the line of its action, because the annular flange
es of the latter occupies a central space, which lies wholly within the circle wherein
the cartridges are located, as shown. The upper cartridge however is in contact,
it will be observed, with the flange of the extracting device, the same being
represented as having been exploded. The operation will be readily understood.
The pistol after having been properly loaded may be fired in the usual manner.
By the descent of the hammer the cartridges are exploded, but furthermore a portion
of the flarge is turned over into such position as to project or extend behind the
shoulder or flange of the extractor, as represented in the cartridge x*, Figure 10,
and in all the cartridges, Figure 11. In consequence of this change of shape or
position it follows that when the cylinder is drawn forward, the shell cannot nove
with it because it is held by the contact of its projecting portion with the fixed
shoulder of the extractor. Hence the shell may be extracted by simply drawing
the cylinder away from it in the usual well-known manner. It will be observed
that only the shell, which is struck by the hammer, will be caused to engage with

page_text: the extractor; hence the loaded shells will never be disturbed under any circum-
stances.
Certain forms of cartridges, which may be employed in connection with the ex-
tracting mechanism, are represented in Figures 15, 16, and 17, and will now be
described. F represents a cartridge, which may he constructed in any suitable
manner, but is essentially provided with the usual annular flange f, and also
with an auxiliary annular flange f1 extending in a rearward direction, as shewn ;
f represents a swell or projection, by means of which the cartridge is extended in a
rearward direction for the purpose of obtaining a proper bearing against the recoil
shield.
If desired, also the auxiliary flange of the cartridge may be made with hexagonal
or polygonal sides, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, for the purpose of adapting it to
present a straight instead of curved surface to the action of the hammer head.
The cartridge may be either central or rim fire, as preferred. If, however, a
central fire cartridge is employed a projection to explode the same must be added to
the hammer. By means of the above-described construction the cartridge is
adapted for use in connection with the mechanism herein-before specified; the
auxiliary flange, it will be understood, when in its place furnishes metal in the
proper position to be acted upon by the haminer head, and to be turned down into
the recess of the extractor. Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21 are views of another modi-
fication of my Invention, which will now be described.
The said Invention, as here shown, consists mainly, first, in the combination with
a retatively fixed extractor plate, a sliding cylinder, and tilting barrel of inter-
mediate rack mechanism, for uniting the barrel to the cylinder, and communicating
the movement of the former to the latter without lost motion; and, secondly, in
certain details of construction, which in connection with the foregoing will be fully
herein-after described.
In the last-named Figures of the Drawings,-
Figure 18 represents a partial sectional elevation of my Invention, with the
cylinder drawn out to discharge a cartridge shell, the position of the loaded cartridge
being indicated in dotted lines.
Figure 19 represents a similar view, with the cylinder loaded and ready for
firing.
Figure 20 is a view representing the position of the rack device relatively to the
hinge joint of the barrel.
And, Figure 21 is a view representing the position of the segmental rack bar
when thrown forward by its spring to engage with the sleeve of the cylinder.
G, Figures 18 and 19, represents the frame of the pistol constructed in any
suitable manner, and of any proper size, but provided essentially below with a bar
y, to which the barrel is hinged, as shown, and above with a locking socket y¹, of
any proper construction.
H represents the centre pin rigidly secured at its rear end to the frame G; it is
provided at its rear end with a recess h, adapted to receive and hold the extractor
plate h, which is free to revolve thereon, as shown. represents the front end of
the pin of a diameter less than that of its rear portion, for purposes herein-after
explained.
I represents the cylinder constructed generally in the usual well known or other
suitable manner, but provided essentially with a central recess i, adapted to receive
the main portion of the centre pin, and a projecting sleeve 2 adapted to receive the
front end h² of the pin, the said sleeve being provided upon its exterior surface with
a series of collars or annular teeth, or flanges 2, as shown.
represents the barrel hinged in any suitable manner to the frame G, and
having the locking bar j and recess j', as shown.
K represents a segmental rack bar or block pivoted within the recess j¹ by means
of the pink, as shown; its teeth k¹ are adapted to engage with the annular teeth
upon the sleeve, as shown; 2 represents a pin, by means of which the rack bar K is

page_text: secured in its proper position; represents a spring, by means of which the rack
bar, when its pin is removed, and the parts are disconnected, is thrown backward
as shown in Figure 21, into proper position to engage with the sleeve when the
disconnected parts are again brought together.
The operation of my extractor will be readily understood. The pistol having been
fired, the cartridge shells may be discharged by simply unlocking the catch and
tilting the barrel.
By the movement of the barrel the said rack bar is caused to actuate the cylinder
and draw it away from the relatively fixed extractor plate, and hence the shells
held thereby being left unsupported fall out.
It will be observed, as indicated in Figure 18, that the cylinder has a longitudinal
movement slightly in excess of the length of the cartridge shells, and hence these
are discharged with absolute certainty when the barrel is tilted. This movement
of the cylinder, however, on the other hand does not equal the length of a loaded
shell, as shown in the same Figure; hence, it follows that while the speut shells
may be extracted at any time with absolute certainty, the loaded shells cannot by
any possibility be extracted or drawn out.
It will be observed also, as indicated in Figure 20, that the rack bar is a segment
of a circle x struck from the hinge point as a centre, and that the lower line **
of the sleeve of the barrel cuts this circle at its highest point, in consequence of
which it follows that when the barrel is tilted on its hinge, the teeth of the rack
bar rigidly attached thereto by means of its pins, move in the are of a circle,
coinciding at the point of contact with the horizontal line of the sleeve's movement,
and hence they successively act upon the corresponding teeth of the sleeve, and
give the latter movement in a uniform straight line without strain or without "lost
motion."
It will be observed, also, that by means of the annular teeth or flanges of the
sleeve the said cylinder is permitted freely to revolve.
Some of the advantages of the above-described construction are as follows:-
The cylinder is actuated to extract the cartridge without "lost motion" by action
of the barrel as a lever, so that tightly jammed cartridges are easily and quickly
extracted. The parts employed are few in number and simple in construction.
so that the cost of manufacture is slight and there is no special liability to
derangement.
Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28 are views of another modification of my
Invention which will now be described.
This part of the said Invention consists mainly, -
First. In the combination of the lever barrel (by means of which the cylinder is
actuated) with the said cylinder, the parts being directly connected without inde-
pendent intermediate parts.
Secondly. In the combination with the tilting lever barrel of a moveable stop,
adapted to arrest the tilting barrel at the end of its noruial movement for dis-
charging the cartridges, and also, when properly actuated, to permit further move-
ment for the purpose of allowing the said cylinder to be removed from the
centre pin.
And, Thirdly. In the combination with the lever barrel of a catch of peculiar
construction.
It consists, further, in certain details of construction, which in connection with
the foregoing will be fully herein-after described.
In the Drawings illustrating this part of my Invention,-
Figure 22 represents a side elevation of a pistol having my improvements applied
thereto, with the barrel in its closed position.
Figure 23 is a similar view, showing the barrel open.
Figure 24 is a similar view, with the barrel tilted beyond its normal position to
permit the removal of the cylinder.
And Figures 25, 26, 27, and 28 shew details of various parts.

page_text: The main portions of the revolver not forming part of this Invention may be
constructed in a similar manner to the corresponding parts previously herein
described.
The novel features of this modification of my Invention will be described for
convenience and clearness under separate heads as follows, namely:-
First. The lever barrel and cylinder.
Second. The lever barrel and moveable stop.
Third. The lever barrel and catch.
First. The lever barrel and cylinder L, Figure 22, represents the lever barrel
provided with the downwardly extending portion 1, hinged to the lower bar or
strap by means of the pivot pin 12, as shewn; 3, Figures 23 and 24, represents
a recess formed in the rear end of the barrel block, and ,, Figures 22 and 27,
studs or pins projecting from the wall or side, as shown. These studs may either
form a solid portion of the barrel block, or may consist of screws inserted from the
outside, as shown. The latter construction is preferred, because the screws before
insertion can be case-hardened to make them more durable under wear.
inserted in place, however, they form practically a solid portion of the barrel.
When
M, Figures 23 and 24, represents the centre pin rigidly secured at its rear end to
the frame; N represents the cylinder, constructed in any suitable manner, but
essentially provided in front with an extended hollow sleeve n, having a single
annular groove or recess n¹, as shown.
The cylinder and lever barrel, properly united, are represented in Figure 22.
Union of the parts is effected, it will be observed, by the studs * of the barrel
and the sleeve of the cylinder, the former resting in the annular groove of the
latter, as shown. By means of this construction the parts are so united that the
cylinder is compelled to move in a longitudinal direction with the barrel when the
latter is tilted, but is free to revolve upon its centre pin without interference.
The connection is such also that the necessary play incidental to the union of two
parts moving in different lines is obtained in a simple manner, the studs,, rising
and falling as the barrel is tilted in the annular groove of the horizontally moving
cylinder to describe the are of a circle struck from the pivot pin 12 as a centre.
advantages of this special construction will be readily understood.
The
The barrel and cylinder are attached directly together without intermediate
auxiliary connecting devices, in consequence of which the number of parts is reduced,
and the arm much simplified and improved.
Secondly. The lever, barrel, and moveable stop 1, Figures 23 and 24, represents a
stop projection formed upon the part of the barrel. O represents a moveable stop,
consisting of a transverse plate o, Figures 22 and 23, extending beyond the solid
portion of the lower bar or strap 1, and partially over the hinge, as shown; and a
longitudinal lever arm o¹ lying in a proper recess of the har, the latter being secured
in place by a pivot pin 62, as shown. o represents an extended portion of the
cylinder bolt spring, by means of which the stop plate is ordinarily held in its normal
position, as shown in Figures 22 and 23.
The operation of this mechanism is as follows:-When the lever arm o¹ of the stop
O is not moved, and the plate o consequently remains in its normal position, the
lever barrel when tilted will be arrested at the end of its normal movement for
discharging the cartridge shells by the contact of its stop projection with the plate o,
as shown in Figure 23. When the parts are in this position the cylinder is
securely held upon the centre pin, and cannot be removed. When however the
lever arm o¹ is properly actuated the plate o will be thrown outward beyond the
line of movement of the stop projection of the part of the barrel, as shewn in
Figure 24; hence when the barrel is tilted the projection will not engage with the
plate at the end of its normal movement for discharging the cartridge shells. The
stop plate is thus made inoperative for the time being, and hence the tilting move-
ment of the barrel may be continued until the studs 14, 14, move out of annular

page_text: groove of the cylinder, and release the same, so that it may be removed from the
centre pin. The cylinder is readily placed, when desired, by sliding the same upon
the centre pin, and tilting the barrel in such manner as to cause its studs to engage
with the groove of the sleeve n.
The advantages of this construction will be readily understood. The cylinder is
positively held against accidental displacement, and yet is removed with great
facility when desired.
Thirdly. The lever, barrel, and catch p, p¹, Figures 23 and 25, represent ears
projecting upward from the side plates of the frame, each being provided with a
slot p, p, as shown.
P represents a catch piece consisting of a transverse bar pt, having at one end a
pivot opening p5, and at the other an angular thumb-piece po, as shown. This catch
piece is represented in position in Figure 25. One end, it will be observed, is
pivoted in the slot p, while the other end extends through the elongated slot p³, as
shown.
The thumb-piece is curved upon its inner side to correspond with the curvature
of the recess p', in which it moves.
ps represents a spring of any proper construction, by means of which the catch-
piece, after being actuated, is returned to its normal position. Q, Figures 23 and
26, represents a projecting portion of the inner end of the barrel, extending rearward
in a horizontal direction, and which is provided with the horizontal recess q adapted
to receive the transverse bar of the catch-piece, as shown. R represents a projecting
portion extending downward at an angle in such a manner as to form an inclined
plane, terminating above at the recess q, as shown. 7 represents an opening
extending from front to rear through the portion R, which is adapted to receive the
hammer head when the latter is in position to explode the cartridge, as shown in
dotted lines, Figure 22.
The operation of this mechanism will be readily understood. When the lever
barrel, after having been tilted to discharge the cartridges, or for other purpose, is
re-tilted to return it to its normal locked position, the inclined face of its projection
R will come in contact with the pivoted catch p, as shewn in dotted lines, Figure 23.
and turn the same on its pivot out of the line of the projection's movement, so that
proper space is afforded for its passage. When the proper point is reached however
the horizontal recess will be opposite the transverse catch-piece p', and the latter
having been released by the passage beyond it of the projection R will be moved
into the same by the re-action of the springs, and thus act to securely lock the
barrel in place. The opening in the projection R is so arranged relatively to the
hammer head that the latter when in position to explode the cartridge bears against
its lowest edge, as shewn in dotted lines in Figure 22. By reason of this construc-
tion and arrangement it follows that the cartridge cannot be exploded unless the
projection R, and consequently the barrel attached thereto, are in the proper locked
osition. If however the said barrel is nearly but not entirely closed, the same will
be brought to its locked position by the descent of the hammer before the explosion
takes place, the inclined face of the latter acting upon the projection Q to force it
down into its proper place.
The catch is exceedingly simple in its construction and operation, and yet possesses
great strength. It extends entirely across the projection of the barrel, and is strongly
held at each end against strain. The cartridges cannot be exploded by the hammer
head unless the barrel is in its locked position.
Having thus fully described the said Invention as communicated to me by my
foreign correspondent, and the manner of performing the same, I wish it understood
that I claim,
First. The improvements illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 of the Drawings, consisting
mainly of the improved catch and the tool tube attached to the barrel, for the purposes
specified.

page_text: Second. The improvements illustrated in Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 of
the Drawings, as set forth in the following clauses, that is to say :-
The combination of the following elements, namely, independent mechanism, as
described, for extracting the cartridge shells, and independent mechanism, as described,
for changing the shape or position of a portion of the cartridge shell to bring it
within the range of action of the extracting mechanism,
Also, the combination of the following elements, namely, an independent extractor,
a cylinder, as described, adapted to hold the cartridges out of the line of action of
the extractor, and mechanism, as described, adapted to act on the rim of the shell,
and cause it to engage with the said extractor.
Also, in combination with the cylinder, the extractor and the hammer, as above
described.
Also, in combination with the cylinder and its centre pin, the extractor sleeve or
equivalent device, and the hammer adapted to change the shape of the cartridge
shell, as above described.
Also, an independent extractor lying out of the plane of the cartridges, and having
a recess adapted to receive the projecting portion of a shell after the form of the
shell has been changed, as above set forth.
Also, in combination with an extractor lying out of the plane of the cartridges,
and having a recess, a hammer head adapted to enter the said recess, as above
specified and for the purpose set forth.
Also, the contrivance or means for extracting cartridge shells, consisting essentially,
first, in locating a series of cartridges in the cylinder in a circle concentric with a
central extracting device, but out of the line of the extractor's action; second, in
changing the shape or position of the rims of two or more cartridges when the Intter
are exploded to bring them within the range of the extractor's action; and, third,
in actuating the extracting device to simultaneously remove all the exploded
cartridges.
Also, the combination of the following elements, namely, a cylinder adapted to
hold a series of cartridges out of the line of action of the extractor, a central
extractor adapted to receive the projection of all the cartridges of the series after
the form of the shells has been changed, and mechanism for changing the position
or form of the rims of the cartridges, all as above described.
Third. The improvements in cartridges, shown in Figures 15, 16, and 17 of the
Drawings, and as set forth in the description of these Figures.
Fourth. The improvements shown in Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the Drawings,
and as set forth in the description of these Figures.
Fifth. The improvements illustrated in Figures 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28 of
the Drawings, and consisting in the following devices or contrivances, that is to
say:
The combination of the lever barrel with the cylinder without intermediate con-
nections, as above described.
Also, in combination with the lever barrel having the studs, the cylinder having
the annular groove, as above described.
Also, a moveable stop adapted to permit a movement of the lever barrel beyond
its normal limit, as above described.
Also, in combination with a tilting lever barrel, a movable stop, as above
described.
Also, the combination of the following elements, namely, a tilting lever barrel, a
removable cylinder, and a removable stop adapted to permit a movement of the
said lever barrel beyond its normal limit for the removal of the cylinder, as above
described.
Also, in combination with the recessed arm of the lever barrel, the pivoted catch-
piece extending across the arm, and held at each of its ends, as above described.

page_text: Also, in combination with the recessed arm and catch-piece, the projection and
hammer head, as above described.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Robert Lake, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Fourteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight.
W.
ROB. LAKE. (L.S.)