Improvements in Breech-loading and Repeating Firearms
Year: 1886

page_text: This Specification was, upon the 22nd day of September 1888, Amended under
Sections 18 to 21 of the Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks Act, 1883.
Date of Application, 3rd Nov., 1886
Complete Specification Left, 5th Sept., 1887-Accepted, 3rd Dec., 1887
RICHARD PAULSON, of Boon Hills, Langwith, in the County of Nottingham,
Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as follows:-
The object of my Invention for Improvements in Breech-loading and Repeating
Firearms is to construct such weapons so that advantage can be taken of the kick or
recoil, in combination or otherwise with the force of the gases generated by the
explosion, as the weapon is discharged, to operate the breech mechanism, so that the
exploded shell, or cartridge, is extracted, ejected, and the arm prepared ready for
again being fired.
In constructing, or applying this Invention to various weapons, I prefer to make use
of the following locking device to retain the cartridge in the barrel so long as the bullet
remains in, or is travelling up the interior. On the breech end of the barrel I make
a screw thread of any desired pitch; inside, or outside this is fitted a hollow socket,
also screwed to correspond with that on the barrel and about the length of the
cartridge; divisions, or slots are cut in both these threads to correspond with each
other, so that, on the cap or hollow socket being forced forward and a slight turn given
to it, it becomes securely locked on to the barrel, somewhat on the well-known plan of
the instantaneous grip vice; this hollow plunger or socket usually contains the striker.
If a socket is used then suitable slots are cut therein to admit or eject the cartridge,
the extractor may also be attached thereto. The striker is operated by a coiled or
other spring, which may be made to serve the double purpose of also pushing forward
the socket, or plunger; or separate springs may be used if desired; or a tumbler or
hammer used to give the blow required to explode the charge. This striker or hammer
may be so arranged as to be controlled by the trigger, and so that as the trigger is
pressed or drawn back it is cocked, and the spring operating it compressed ready for
firing. This hammer or striker may be made rebounding and so arranged that it
cannot be effectivly used, or any pressure brought to bear on the cap, unless the
breech action is securely locked. Instead of using the slotted screw in thus locking
the action, a sliding pin, bolt, or spring catch, or other means may be used; if a
spring catch or catches are used, they may be forced open by the pressure of the gases

page_text: generated by the explosion passing through small openings in the barrel. This breech
action, or locking arrangement, I prefer to enclose in the body or shoe of the weapon;
and the opening through which the cartridge is ejected may be closed by a sliding
cover, which only opens as the cartridge is ejected or in unloading; in doing the latter
any suitable lever or other arrangement may be used to operate the breech-action;
this may be at the side as in bolt guns, or placed under the barrel as in Colts,
Winchester, or Spencer rifles.
The barrel itself may be secured in its place as heretofore, in which case I may
utilise the force of the exploding gases so that they may cause the breech mechanism
to unlock, be driven open, and thus extract, eject and substitute a fresh cartridge as
before mentioned. To accomplish this, I prefer to make a small inclined perforation
into the barrel, lining the same with any suitable non-corrosive metal, to prevent
it being injuriously eaffected by the explosive gases. This perforation is made to com-
municate with a small cylinder placed under, or at the side of the barrel; inside this
cylinder, I place a small piston which is held in its place by a small coiled or other
spring. At the instant of discharge, the pressure of gases in the barrel being driven
through the aforesaid small opening into the cylinder, forces back the piston, and
spring or springs; the said piston communicates with the breech-mechanism in such a
manner as to unlock the same so that it can then be forced back by the kick, recoil, or
suitable springs, as and for the purposes previously mentioned. It may be readily
understood that, as the said cylinder is placed preferably at some distance from the
breech, I may carry a rod, passing through suitable guides, from it to the breech
mechanism, or I may utilise the ramrod for this purpose, connecting it with the piston
by suitable projections. Further, in order that the said piston may be readily cleaned,
1 inay either secure it firmly to the barrel by means of the cylinder; which this inay
have a screw plug, that can be readily removed, at the end; or instead of which this
the cylinder may form part of or be held in its proper position by the band used to
secure the fore-end and barrel together; thus it could be readily detached when
required. This piston can, if not required to be used, be arranged to be pushed
forward and cover the opening into the barrel, thus preventing any gas entering to
operate the same. I may also line with or make these parts of any suitable non-corrosive
metal, such as nickel or phosphor-bronze, and also any or all of the springs or breech
action, or if of other metal, then plated. I may dispense with the aforesaid cylinder
altogether, and instead, cause the barrel itself to recoil, as the bullet leaves the muzzle,
against the resistance of one or more springs, at the same time causing the breech
action, or bolt, to be unlocked from the barrel as it is driven back by the kick or
recoil, compressing suitable springs as herebetofore described; or instead of these
springs, I may use a liquid, contained in a suitable reservoir, having an air chamber
to take up the shock of the recoil, at the same time causing a small quantity of the
liquid to be ejected into the barrel to cool and lubricate it; or springs and a liquid
may be used in combination, this arrangement being more suitable for arms of larger
calibre. In rifles, or weapons fired from the hand or shoulder, I may place the afore-
said springs in any suitable position, under the barrel, behind the bolt or plunger,
within the body, or in the stock of the weapon. Should it be desired to use the arm
as a repeater, then I may use any sort of magazines, detachable or otherwise, placed
under the barrel as in the Winchester or Colts rifles, in the stock, or attachable to the
body of the weapon, as in the Mannlicher, or similar weapons. If desired the
magazines may be held in reserve and the weapon used as an ordinary breech-loader,
the breech mechanism being worked by hand should any mishap occur, a lever or
other suitable arrangement being used for this purpose: or again, as each cartridge
is automatically extracted and ejected, as previously described, I may make use of a
small bolt or spring to lock the breech until a fresh cartridge has been inserted; this
locking device may be controlled by the trigger, or other means. Further, the
sliding barrel may be locked in its place unless the trigger is pulled.-It is found
in practice that bad or defective rifling prevents the best results being obtained by
these improved arms. I prefer therefore, without thus limiting myself, to use barrels
baving grooves formed like, or somewhat on the same principle as the Metford or

page_text: Lancaster weapons, having preferably an increasing or accelerated twist of groove;
instead of using the ordinary crescent shaped grooves, I prefer to cut a notch in
the middle of the cutter and also if desired from the edges so that slight ridges
are left at the sides and middle of such grooves. Should these weapons be required
for shot, as well as ball, then, such grooving or rifling may only begin a short
distance from the muzzle, the rest of the barrel being bored smooth and only con-
tracted at the muzzle where rifled; or in double guns, one barrel may be fully rifled,
and the other only as previously described at the muzzle. I intend to apply the
aforesaid improvements, or modifications thereof, to all classes of military, sporting,
single or repeating magazine weapons, rifles, guns of whatever description, pistols and
revolvers. A slot may be cut in the breech-body and closed by a thumb-screw, so
that the barrel may be readily changed or secured. Two or more barrels may be
used, if desired, with their corresponding breech-actions. Should the weapon or arm
be too heavy to be fired from the shoulder, I may make use of any suitable support,
such as a tripod, to which the barrel or barrels may be pivoted. When applied to
revolvers, I prefer to make use of the cylinder and piston as previously described, so
that the exploding gases forcing it back cause it to rotate the chambers and recock
the hammer at each discharge, a small spring catch being used to prevent it so doing
as the trigger is liberated by the finger, this locking catch being brought into play by
the pressure on the trigger at each discharge. In pistols (repeaters) a similar catch
is used for the same purpose and the magazine placed preferably in the stock, a
small flap being left at the side, or other part, for reloading purposes. The chamber
that receives the cartridge may extend a short distance within the barrel and the
rim of the cartridge be made smaller than is usually done, if desired. Should it be
desired to use these weapons as ordinary breech-loaders, then, arrangement is made,
by turning a bolt, or other means, so that the spring taking up the recoil, if too
powerful to be readily drawn back by hand, may be disconnected and not used.
These weapons may also be arranged to be fired by electricity, instead of by a blow on
the cap or cartridge. The cartridge chamber and also the interior of the barrel may
be plated to prevent corrosion. Any known safety pin or arrangement may be used
to lock the firing pin in a position of safety.
Dated this Second day of November A.D. 1886.

page_text: COMPLETE SPECIFICATION (AMENDED).
Improvements in Breechloading and Repeating Firearms.
RICHARD PAULSON, of Boon Hills, Langwith, in the County of Nottingham,
Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention, and in what manner the
same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement:-
The object of my Invention for Improvements in Breechloading and Repeating
Firearms is to make or construct such arms or weapons, so that advantage can be
taken, if desired, of the kick or recoil, in combination or otherwise with the force of
the gases generated by the explosion as the weapon is discharged, to
the
operate
breech mechanism, so that the exploded shell or cartridge is extracted, ejected, and
the arm again prepared ready for firing.
In carrying out and applying this invention, I prefer to use the well known
rebounding hammer or striker. This hammer is arranged, so that it cannot be
effectively used or any pressure brought to bear upon the cap, unless the breech
action is securely locked. The breech-action and locking arrangement I prefer to
enclose in the body or shoe of the weapon. In unloading any suitable lever or
other arrangement may be used to operate the breech-action. The barrel itself may
be secured in its place as heretofore; in which case I may utilise the force of the
exploding gases, so that they may cause the breech mechanism to be operated. (See
revolver). To accomplish this I prefer to make a small inclined perforation into the
barrel, lining the same with any suitable non-corrosive metal to prevent it being
injuriously eaffected by the explosive gases. This perforation is made to communicate
with a small cylinder placed under or at the side of the barrel. Inside this cylinder
I place a small piston, which is held in its place by a small coiled or other spring.
At the instant of discharge the pressure of gases in the barrel, being driven through
the aforesaid small opening into the cylinder, forces back the piston and spring or
springs.
It may be readily understood that, as the said cylinder is placed preferably at some
distance from the breech, I may carry a rod passing through suitable guides from it
to the breech mechanism; or I may utilise the ramrod for this purpose, connecting it
with the piston by suitable projections. Further, in order that the said piston may be
readily cleaned, may either secure it firmly to the barrel by means of the cylinder,
which may have a screw plug, that can be readily removed at the end; or instead of
which this the cylinder may form part of, or be held in its proper position by the band or
clip used to secure the fore end and barrel together: thus it can be readily detached
when required. This piston can, if not required to be used, be so arranged to be that it may
pushed forward and cover the opening into the barrel, thus preventing any gas entering
to operate the same. I may line or make these parts of any suitable non-corrosive
metal such as nickel or phosphor-bronze and also any-one-of the springs or breech
action. er-if-of-other-metal, then-plated I may dispense with the aforesaid cylinder
altogether, and instead cause the barrel itself to recoil, as the bullet leaves the muzzle,

page_text: against the resistance of one or more springs, and at the same time cause the breech
action to be unlocked from the barrel, so as to be driven back by the kick or recoil,
as it compressinges suitable springs.
In rifles or weapons fired from the hand or shoulder, I may place the aforesaid
springs in any suitable position, under the barrel, within the body, or in the stock of
the weapon.
Should it be desired to use the arm as a repeater, then I may use any
sort of magazine, placed under the barrel as in Winchester or Colts rifles, or in the
stock. If desired, the magazine may be held in reverse, and the weapon used as an
ordinary breech-loader,-the breech mechanism being worked by hand, a lever or other
suitable arrangement being used for this purpose. Further, the sliding barrel may be
locked in its place unless the trigger is pulled.
It is found in practice that bad or defective rifling prevents the best results being
obtained in using these improved arms. I prefer therefore, without thus limiting myself,
to use barrels having grooves formed like or somewhat on the same principle as in the
Metford or Lancaster weapons, having preferably an increasing or accelerated twist of
groove. Instead of using the ordinary cresent shaped groves, I prefer to cut a notch
in the middle of the cutter, and also, if desired, form the edges, so that only slight
ridges lands are left at the sides or middle of such grooves. Should these weapons be
required for shot as well as ball, then such grooving or rifling may only begin a
short distance from the muzzle, the rest of the barrel being bored smooth and only
contracted at the muzzle where rifle; or in double guns one barrel may be fully
rifled, and the other only as previously described, (at the muzzle only.) These improve-
ments or a modification thereof may be applied to rifles, guns, pistols, and revolvers―
A slot may be cut in the breech hody and closed by a thumb-screw, so that the barrels
may be readily changed or secured. Two or more barrels may be used, if desired, with
their corresponding breech actions. When applied to Revolvers, I prefer to make use
of the cylinder and piston as previously described, so that the exploding gases
forcing it back causes it to rotate the chambers and recock the hainmer at each
discharge. A small spring catch being is used to prevent it doing so as the trigger is
liberated by the finger, this locking catch being brought into play by the pressure on
the trigger at each discharge. In pistols and rifles a similar catch may be used for
the said purpose, and The magazine is placed preferably in the stock, a small flap
being left at the side or other part for reloading purposes.
In order that the said invention may be more fully understood, I now proceed to
to describe the same with reference to the five sheets of drawings annexed.
Fig. 1 shews the application of iny invention to an ordinary revolver.
The piston A, placed under the barrel, is being operated by the gases generated by the
explosion passing through the small perforation B, in the barrel, and forces the sliding-
rod C against the resistance of the spring D, And thus presses back the hammer E,
thereby cocking it, and turning the chamber by means of the pin F engaging in the
teeth Ġ in the ordinary way. The small lever A is controllable by the trigger and the
trigger spring. Thus the pin H, inay be made to enter the catch J, which retains the
sliding rod C back against the pressure of the spring D, until the trigger is released
from the pressure of the finger as the weapon is fired. When thus liberated the sliding
rod C is forced back into its original position by the spring D, and the weapon is thus
again ready for firing, while Without the aid of the said lever K and locking pin H
to retain the rod C at each discharge as aforesaid, one pull or pressure on the trigger
would cause the whole of the chambers to be discharged in rapid succession.
Fig. 2. shews also in vertical section the application of any invention to an ordinary
drop down sporting rifle or gun.
The chamber cylinder A 1 and the sliding pin piston B 2 I prefer to place under the
barrel just in front of the break-off C. A perforated screw is made to communi-
cate with the chamber A 1, in which the sliding red piston works. and The action is
as follows:-
As the weapon is discharged, a small portion of the gas generated by the explosion
is forced through the small perforation in the barrel M, as in the other weapons and

page_text: passing down the hollow screw L into the chamber A 1 forces back the sliding piston
red B, which by any suitable means, (such as the taper point N. by forcing down the
lever 0) may be made to recock the weapon at each discharge. The small lump P on
the underside at the same time eansing causes the spring catch Q to engage with the
pin R. where it is retained, until the breech is opened by means of any suitable means
or the usual levers, operated by hand as heretofore. when Just before the barrels
have been depressed to their full extent, the inclined point of the spring Q is forced
upwards by the point S on hinge of the breakoff; the spring Q then causes the piece T
to jump quickly forward carrying with it the usual ejector and rod V. The quick
jerk thus extracts and ejects the empty cartridge case clear of the gun. A flat spring
may be used instead of the spiral one W for giving the required impulse in ejecting.
If a fresh cartridge be now placed in the breech, the force and action of closing the
weapon will cause the hinged piece Tand also the sliding rod V to assume the respective
positions shewn in the drawing, the spring Wat the same time being compressed. This
action it will be readily understood is caused by the end of the break off bearing
against the face or front of the hinged piece T.
By removing the pin R the spring catch is prevented from retaining the piece T
back. Thus as soon as the breech is opened, the spring W would, by pressing forward
the rod V and extractor cause the cartridge to be extracted but not ejected.
By simply turning or replacing the-screw-I-so-that the exploding gases cannot
enter-the chamber A-1-to-force-back-the-pin B2-the-arm-might-be-cocked-in-any-of
the-nanal-ways-as-for instance, by dropping the barrels in hammerless guns,-at-the
same-time-the-spring-catch Q-by the pressure of the lever O. or other suitable means
may-be-made to engage with the pin R. and thus the spent-eartridge-be-ejected-as
the-arm-is-opened.
In double barreled weapons, by duplicating the action of the sliding pin B2 and
parts shewn in Fig. 2, both or each separate haminer might be cocked by the force
of the exploding gases, as previously described; and both or each separate cartridge be
extracted and ejected.
A single perforated screw might be made to answer for double barrels, if it had two
openings therein, each communicating with its separate piston piston and barrel.
I may make one barrel a smooth bore and the other rifled; or they may be simply
rifled at the muzzle only, but with one or more slight grooves extending further down the
barrel as shewn in Fig 3. This rifling or grooves may be of any pattern, with or
without an increasing spiral or twist, as in the well known Metford rifling, (Patented
1865 No. 2488,) or it may be on the Murphy's system previously (patented in 1872
No. 559) known as Murphy's. But the rifling I most prefer is on the plan shewn in
Fig 4 and 5. In rifling the former I make use of a cutter shaped as shewn in section
Fig. 6. The cutting edge of which is shaped formed so as to cut a half-round groove
as in the Metford and Lancaster rifling, and preferably with an accelerated or
increasing twist or pitch. by By means of the slight cut inade in the edge of the
rifling tool a small bead is left in the middle of the grooves; but I do not confine
myself to this particular form of cutter to produce the said rifling, as it may readily
be done by having duplicate tools. The bead is clearly shewn in Fig. 4. Or the
cutter may be so shaped as to produce a ratchet shaped groove with or without an
increasing spiral as in the Metford rifling; but this groove instead of having a sharp
corner at its greatest depth may be rounded off as in Fig. 5. Further instead of the
deepest part A² being the bearing edge, I prefer to make the twist or turn in the barrel
so that the gradual slope B. 4. is the bearing edge.
I may make the air space A¹ Fig. 2 in the cylinder larger if desired, so that a very
slight escape of gas from the barrel is sufficient to heat and expand the air contained
therein, sufficiently and to drive back the sliding rod or pin as required; or I may place
the spring W above the sliding-rod piston B, so that on entering the gases may force
it away from, instead of towards the breech; until when such gases are spent, when
the spring would force it back towards the breech with power enough to operate the
same, and as previously described.

page_text: I prefer to cover plate or make the parts subject to the action of the explosive gases
of any noncorrosive metal, such as nickel.
Fig 7, sheet 3, shews more clearly the action of a drop-down gun or rifle as
previously shewn in Fig 2-and For the sake of clearness the piston and sliding-pin
operated by the explosive gases-although I may use it in both weapons-is omitted,
and the weapon is shewn cocked, by the action of depressing the barrels being made
to act on the cocking lever O in a manner well known to gunmakers.
The action of the arm is as follows:-The weapon having been discharged, and the
usual lever or locking bolt being withdrawn by hand, so that the barrels M can he
depressed, the lug A¹ by bearing the lever upwards causes the main spring C¹ to
be compressed thus cocking the arm. At the same time the extractor V V being is
forced outwards by the action of the tooth F which is partly-rotated-by-the-point-or
end-of-the-body at C in the usual manner and-while thus rotating, it which also
forces upwards the slotted piece T by means of the small catch Q, until it is free of
the retaining catch P on the fore-end J. Then the force of the compressed spring W
acting on the back of the slotted piece T throws it sharply forward against the end of
the extractor V V, driving and drives it forward with a quick jerk, until it is brought
Hp checked by the end of the screw B in the usual manner, thus causing the exploded
cartridge or cartridges to be ejected, the whole action being almost identical with that
previously shewn in Fig 2.-If a double barreled arm is used, then in order to retain
the unexploded cartridge in the barrel while ejecting the spent one, I may make use
of the following means:-Through the spindle of the extractor V V I pass, through a
suitable opening the rod S Figs 7 and 8. This rod is connected or screwed into the
end of the extractor spindle, which I divide about the middle. Under this part a
small slot is cut at D₁ Fig. S in which the pin D2 Fig. 7 may work, so-as-te and act as
follows:-Supposing the left-hand barrel to have been fired and the cocking bolt
withdrawn, so that the barrels could be depressed, as shewn in Fig 7, the force exerted
by the mainspring C¹ on the lever causes it to force downwards the spring catch P.
which This in its turn pushes the rod or pin D2 which, being thus caused to hear
upon one side of the extractor rod V above it, causes it to slightly rotate, as it is
pushed forward by the tooth F. This slight rotary motion being is communicated by
the rod S to the head piece S², so that it projects a little over the rim or base of
the unexploded cartridge, and thus retains it in its place, while the other is ejected as
previously described.
It must be clearly understood that in double-barreled weapons, the parts shewn in
the drawing would, where required, be duplicated. Thus, should both barrels be fired,
then instead of only one pin D² being acted upon by the lever and the spring
catch P, its duplicate pin would also be brought into play. Thus causing the pressure
on both sides of the extractor rod V to would be equal, whieh so that, instead of being
rotated either to the right or left according to which barrel was fired, it would remain
together with the rod S and head-piece S central. Thus neither of the cartridges
being retained by it, they would in-this-ease both be ejected by the quick blow given
on the end of the extractor V by the spring acting on the slotted piece T. or I dispense
with the-rod-S:-end might use instead the usual divided or split extractor duplicating
the spring W and slotted piece T. 1-may-also-although-not-shewn-in-Fig 7:-use
the-piston-and-eylinder-as-shewn-in Fig 2 sheet-2-to-recock-the-arm;-this-is-done
by-eausing the-sliding-pin-B²-Fig. 2. to-net-on-and-push forward-the-lower-part-of
the-lug-A-ig-which-may-be-dove-tailed-on-under-the-lug-A', -co-that it-could
slide-a-short-distance-backwards or forwards-as--required-the-melined-point-A³-by
foreing-up-the lever-O-being-made-to-recock the-arm-at-each-discharge Or-instead
of-doing-this, The drop down barrels may be secured in their place by a small bolt
or pin R passing through the lug A¹ Fig. 9. A slot or opening being is cut in the
breech body at R2 Fig. 7 closed by a thumb screw or other means. which This being
removed, the pin R Fig. 9 would readily drop out, so that the barrel or barrels could
then be readily changed or removed.-This pin R may also be used to work the lever O
Figs. 9 and 10 and other parts in cocking instead of the inclined point A³ Fig. 7.
The perforation N in the lug being should be made oblong instead of round, thus

page_text: allowing the pin R room to move slightly forward accordingly as one or other of the
levers were made to press upon it.
Fig. 10, sheet-3 shews a slight modification of the usual lock action, in which the
main-spring, instead of the one shewn in Fig. 7 may be used: the hammers preferably
being made preferably to rebounding in the usual way, but so that they cannot be
effectively used, or any pressure brought to bear on the cap, unless the-breech-nction
is-first-securely-locked-and the trigger is pulled. I use the following arrangement:-
Over the end of the usual sear I place a second divided or forked piece D¹, and as
soon as the hammer is fully cocked by the lever 02, the point of this divided fork
engages in the notch B as usual, but at the same time the pressure of the sear
spring B2 causes the end of the true sear to be raised into the second catch or slot C
made in the middle of the hammer, although it does not bear thereon; unless through
any violent jerk or shock should cause the first sear to become disengaged from the
catch B, when instead of the arm being thus fired, the haminer would be brought up
by the end of the true sear lodging in the notch C. In firing the arm by pulling the
trigger in the ordinary way, the pressure put upon the end of the true sear D³ would
cause it to become depressed clear of the deep notch C, and by bearing on the face of
the forked sear D¹ it would be forced from the catch B, and the hammer would be thus
liberated. Further, a second half-cock is made in the hammer at A, so that in the
event of the barrels being only slightly instead of fully depressed, this half cocking
catch would engage with the sear and thus prevent the hammers coming in contact
with the strikers.-Fig. 11 shews an enlarged section of the hammer cut through at
the line F. F. Fig 12 shews the breech end of the barrels.
S3 is the head of the extractor and the rotating head of the rod S², to receive which
a slight opening is made in the face of the breeak off, body as shewn in Fig. 13 B¹
and Fig. 7, into which it fits when the breech is closed.
On sheet 4 is shewn a further application of my invention to a repeating arm pistol.
A is the hammer; B is the barrel; C is the point rounded off so as to recock the
hammer A, as the barrel B recoils; D is the rod for retaining the hammer A, when
cocked, by engaging it at D2 until the trigger E' is pulled; E2 is a spring for depressing
the trigger, until the hinged piece E attached thereto is brought below the end of the
rod D); at a catch is made to receive it in the body (F2) of the arm and retain it at.
each discharge Fig. 14; G is a spiral spring attached to the slotted piece R; H is
the mainspring for operating the hammer A; J is the striker rendered rebounding by
the spring J K is the cartridge ready for being fired; L Fig. 14 is the slot in the
end of the hinged block M, into which the hammer A must enter and thus lock the
hinged block M, before it can reach the end of the striker J; (after the hammer has
delivered the required blow, the spiral spring J¹ causes both the striker J and the
hammer A to rebound slightly; thus no pressure would be brought to bear upon
the cap in the cartridge K, as the block M was is sharply closed; neither could the
haminer A be effectively used to explode it, unless the block M was closed and securely
locked by the point of the hammer A, as it entered the slot L:) N is a strong spiral
spring placed behind the barrel B to take up the recoil; 0 0 Fig. 143 are the
extractors, embedded in the breech end of the barrel B, which together with the hinged
block M is are attached thereto by the pin or bolt Q, and to which also the rotating
pin P is connected. This pin workes between the two guides R and R³ Fig. 14 on
the slotted piece R, so that, as the block M swings open, it partly turns or rotates the
pin P, which acting on the guide R2 pushes back the slotted piece R, so that the
cartridge K³ can enter the opening T. Then as the block M is closed, the pin P
being is moved back to its original position and bearing on the face of the guide R³
draws forward the slotted piece R and the cartridge K³ up the inclined face of U
Fig. 1 until it is nearly home in the chamber V, and into which it is forced by the
face of the hinged block M as it closes. The spring G being attached to the end of
the piece R is compressed by the slight projection 132 under the barrel B. The motion
of the barrel as it moves forward under the impulse of the spring N after the discharge
also tends to close the block M. At the same time the spring G, by exerting its
pressure against the end of the piece R, tends to draw it sharply forward carrying

page_text: with it the pin P by the aid of the guides R2 and Rs. This pin P being attached to
the bolt Q causes it together with the block M to rotate, so as to close it the said block:
sharply after each discharge. S is a compressed spring placed in the stock of the
weapon for forcing upwards the cartridges K+ contained therein, so that one is
extracted enters the slotted piece Teach time the weapon is discharged, or the breech
block M opened wide. (K2 Fig. 142 is the spent and extracted cartridge,) Fig. 143
shews a section of the arm cut through on the line from X to X and Fig. 142 a section
on the line from Y to Y Fig. 14. Fig. 14 shews an enlarged plan of the cocking
lever W, hammer A, Mainspring H, sliding rod D, and trigger arrangement. Fig. 141
sheet 4-shews-the-application-of-my invention to a repeating pistol in which the kick
or-recoil-is-made-to-operate-the-breech-mechanism-so-that-the-exploded-cartridge-is
extracted;-ejected-and-the-arm-again-prepared-rendy-for-firing.
The action of the this arm is as follows,-on:-The hammer A, being cocked, either
by hand, or by the recoil of the barrel B pressing against it at C, and forcing it back,
when it is locked in that position by the point of the rod D, to engage it at D²; this
rod D is controlled by the hinged piece E on the trigger E¹. On the trigger E¹ being
pulled, the point of the hinged piece E, by pressing against the underside of the rod D,
forces it upwards, until it is free from the retaining catch F. Then the spring G draws
it (the rod D) a short distance forward away from the catch D2, and the hammer A
being thus liberated is caused to impinge sharply forward by the mainspring H, the
blow being received by the head of the striker J causing it to explode the cartridge K.
At the same time the hammer A, being embedded in the slot Lat the end of the hinged
piece M, (Fig. 14¹ and 142) acts as a bolt locking it securely until the recoil takes place;
which. The recoil drives back the barrel B against the resistance of the spiral spring N,
and as previously mentioned, acting also acts against the face of the hammer A, so as
to force it backwards, at-the-same-time thus unlocking the hinged piece M, which, by
the combined action of the recoiling barrel and the pressure from the base of the
cartridge K, is caused to swing sharply outwards, as shewn in Fig. 142. By this
means the spent cartridge K², with or without the aid of the extractors 00 is ejected.
As the hinged piece or swinging block M swing outwards, it carries with it the
rotating pin P, Figs. 145 and 143. This pin working between the two guides on the
slotted piece R, Figs. 145 and 14° causes, it, as the swinging block M. opens outwards,
to be driven backwards, so that a fresh cartridge, being forced upwards by the springs S
at the end of the magazine, enters the opening T made in the slotted piece R for that
purpose. The position of this cartridge is shewn in Fig. 14² K³. As the barrel B
recoils against the spring N, the small spring G is compressed and the block M is
thrown open. Then as the sliding barrel B is again driven forward into its original
position, as in Fig. 14¹ the action of the compressed spring G together with the
forward motion of the barrels B causes the hinged piece M, again to close sharply.
The slotted piece R at the same time, as it moves forward, carries with it the
cartridge K³ up the incline U into the chamber V in the barrel B. Then it is
forced completely home by the face of the hinged block M as it closes; the arm
is thus automatically loaded and the hammer A at the same time recocked at each
discharge, until the magazine is exhausted.-The hinged piece E on the trigger acts
only in one direction. It being is necessary to remove the pressure of the finger on
the trigger E¹, so that the spring E2 placed above it can act to force it downwards,
until the point of the hinged piece E can spring forward under the end of the
rod D, which is caused to engage in the retaining catch F at each discharge.
Otherwise the action of reloading automatically reloading the arm is so rapid, that
there would not be time to remove the pressure of the finger on the trigger, and
it would with one pressure be discharged continually until the magazine was
exhausted.
Fig. 147 shews the rifling I prefer to use, being somewhat on the Metford plan with
or without an increasing twist of groove. The edges instead of being left flat at the
top, are rounded off, so that no fouling can accumulate thereon.
Although I have shewn this improved arrangement as applied to a repeating pistol,
it is evident that, by simply adding a stock as shewn by the dotted lines C₁ C¹, the

page_text: arm could be fired from the shoulder and. Instead of using the short barrel B, I may
use a much longer barrel either rifled or smooth bored; and thus have a repeating
shot gun or rifle. I may also make use of the magazine as shewn in the draw-
ing Fig. 14, a flap being made therein for reloading it, or it may be placed under the
barrel as in the well known Winchester arms.-In case of misfire or to unload these
arms the hinged block M is opened by hand, and, as it is forced back, pressure is
brought to bear on the extractors 0 0, so that the cartridge is ejected from the
barrel.
In Fig. 14, Sheet 5, is shewn the application of my invention to a repeating rifle.
In this drawing the magazine is placed under the barrel instead of in the stock.
The other parts and the action of the arm as it is fired is are almost the same
as previously shewn and described in Figs. 141 to 147 sheet 4. I have therefore
in Fig. 14 sheet 5 used the same letters to indicate the various parts as used in
sheet 4. A is the hammer; B is the barrel; C the point rounded off, so as to
recock the bammer A; E' is the trigger; E a hinged or rocking_lever operated
by the trigger E'; E is a spring for lifting the rocking piece E, so that, after
the trigger is liberated by the finger, this spring causes the locking bolt or catch E³
to lock the barrel B, at E being forced into the notch by the rocking lever E²; F is
the catch, in which the hinged piece F1 attached to the hammer A, is retained as the
hammer is cocked; F is the body of the arm; H is the mainspring; J the
striker; and J the spiral spring for causing it to rebound; K is the cartridge
contained in the barrel B ready for firing; K are the cartridges retained in the
magazine placed under the barrel; M is the hinged block (as previously described
on sheet 4); N is the spiral spring placed behind the barrel B to take up the kick or
recoil; $ is the spiral spring placed in the magazine tube S¹ to press forward backwards
the cartridges K³ contained in the tube placed in the foreend (2; and C¹ is the stock
for firing the arm from the shoulder.
The action of the arm Fig. 14 sheet 5, is when fired identical with that-shewn that
of the arm drawn on sheet 4. when-fired.
On The trigger E¹ on being pulled, it forces the rocking lever E upwards, so as to
force F¹ from the retaining catch F, thus liberating the hammer A, which by the
action of the mainspring H is thrown sharply forward, so as to first lock the hinged
piece M securely and then drive forward the striker J, compressing the spring J.
The blow having been delivered, this spring J¹ is made strong enough to cause both
the hammer and the striker to rebound a short distance; but the hammer A, is not
thus driven so far back as to unlock the hinged block M.-The striker J, as it receives
the blow of the hammer A, explodes the cartridge K, which is retained in the barrel,
until the bullet or projectile leaves the muzzle, when the kick drives back the barrel B
against the resistance of the spring N;-in-doing this. While this is being done the point C
is brought against the face of the hammer A, and-forces-it-backwards, recocking it and
at the same time unlocking the hinged block M-which. This block is forced open by
the base of the cartridge acting on its face, as the said cartridge and the barrel are
driven back by the recoil, which it is found is also sufficient to cause it the cartridge
to be sharply ejected; The action of closing the block M and inserting a fresh cart-
ridge is the same as previously described, and as shewn applied to a pistol on sheet 4.
For the sake of clearness they-are-omitted such action is not shown on sheet 5 in-Fig.-14.
The action of the trigger is also somewhat different in-Fige-14-sheet-6, as applied to
a rifle, it if being placed behind instead of in front of the magazine. As the hammer A
is cocked by the recoiling barrel, F¹ first engages in the catch Fs on the rocking piece E.
As the trigger is pulled, this rocking piece also tends to foree lift upwards, as the trigger
is pulled, the cartridge K* but not so as to prevent the catch Fi engaging in F8. In
Fig. 14 the double acting-trigger is shewn pulled and the catch F' liberated; this catch
slips from the lever E to the catch F as the trigger is liberated.
I also intend to slightly modify the barrel and magazine shewn in Fig. 14, so that
shot instead of ball cartridges can be used, I-prefer. In doing so,-to; I use a smooth
bored barrel and a larger magazine tube; or the barrel may be rifled only at the
muzzle,

page_text: A flap may be placed at the side or end of the magazine tube Fig. 14, as used in
Colts and Winchester arms for reloading, being. This method of reloading the
magazine is so well known as to need no description or drawings.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said
invention and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is
1st. In a revolver the manner of utilizing the force of the gases generated by or
from the explosion, so that a sliding rod, being driven back against the resistance of
a spring, or springs, operates the breech mechanism in such a manner, that the arm is
automatically prepared for again being fired, substantially as described.
2nd. A Rifle, pistol, or other firearm in which the force of the kick or recoil is
utilized for extracting the empty shell and operating the breech mechanism by
means of a recoiling barrel, or the force of the explosive gases substantially as
described.
3rd. The construction of a firearm with drop down barrels so that the force of the
gases generated by the explosion shall operate to recock the weapon, the locking bolt
and lever being worked by hand, substantially as described.
4th. The means employed and the tool used for producing a particular groove as
sheown, and the combination of that class of grooving with an accelerated or increasing
twist as in the Metford rifling; also for guns rifled in the muzzle or choked having an
rifling them with increasing spiral grooves, substantially as described.
5th. A ratchet shaped groove as sheown in Fig. 5 in which the edge is rounded off,
combined with the Metford or an increasing twist or spiral, the turn being given to it,
so that the gradually deepning side is the bearing edge, to give the required spin to
the projectile when fired, substantially as described.
6th. The construction of a firearm with a drop down barrel, or barrels so that the
act of opening the breech automatically ejects the empty or spent shell and the act
of closing the said breech action is made to compress a spring or springs so that they
can be held in position until required to eject the empty shell substantially as
described.
7th. The construction of fire arms substantially as described with reference to the
drawings and description generally, with or without a magazine for automatically
loading the same.
RICHARD PAULSON.

page_text: RICHARD PAULSON, of Boon Hills, Langwith, in the County of Nottingham
Engineer do hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as follows :-
The object of my Invention for Improvements in Breech-loading and Repeating
Firearms is to construct such weapons so that advantage can be taken of the kick or
recoil, in combination or otherwise with the force of the gases generated by the
explosion, as the weapon is discharged, to operate the breech mechanisın, so that the
exploded shell, or cartridge, is extracted, ejected, and the arm prepared ready for
again being fired.
In constructing, or applying this Invention to various weapons I prefer to make use
of the following locking device to retain the cartridge in the barrel so long as the bullet
remains in, or is traveling up the interior; on the breech end of the barrel I make
a screw thread of any desired pitch, inside, or outside this is fitted a hollow socket,
also screwed to correspond with that on the barrel and about the length of the
cartridge, divisions, or slots are cut in both these threads to correspond with each
other, so that, on the cap or hollow socket being forced forward and a slight turn given
to it, it becomes securely locked on to the barrel, somewhat on the well-known plan of the
instantaneous grip vice, this hollow plunger or socket usually contains the striker, if a
socket then suitable slots are cut therin to admit or eject the cartridge, the extractor
may also be attached thereto, the striker is operated by a coiled or other spring, which
may be made to serve the double purpose of also pushing forward the socket, or plunger,
or separate springs may be used if desired, or a tumbler or hammer used to give the
blow required to explode the charge. This striker or hammer may be so arranged as
to be controlled by the trigger and so that as the trigger is pressed or drawn back it
is cocked and the spring operating it compressed ready for firing, this hammer or
striker may be made rebounding and so arranged that it cannot be effectivly used, or
any pressure brought to bear on the cap, unless the breech action is securely locked.
Instead of using the slotted screw in thus locking the action, a sliding pin, bolt, or
spring catch, or other means may be used, if a spring catch or catches are used,
they may be forced open by the pressure of the gases generated by the explosion

page_text: passing through small openings in the barrel, this breech action, or locking arrange-
ment, I prefer to enclose in the body or shoe of the weapon and the opening through
which the cartridge is ejected may be closed by a sliding cover which only opens
as the cartridge is ejected or in unloading, in doing the latter any suitable lever
or other arrangement may be used to operate the breech-action, this may be at the
side as in bolt guns, or placed under the barrel as in Colts, Winchester, or Spencer
rifles.
The barrel itself may be secured in its place as heretofore, in which case I may
utilise the force of the exploding gases so that they may cause the breech mechanism
to unlock be driven open and thus extract, eject and substitute a fresh cartridge as
before mentioned, to accomplish this, I prefer to make a small inclined perforation
into the barrel, lining the same with any suitable non-corrosive metal, to prevent
it being injuriously effected by the explosive gases, this perforation is made to com-
municate with a small cylinder placed under, or at the side of the barrel, inside this
cylinder, I place a small piston which is held in its place by a small coiled or other
spring, at the instant of discharge, the pressure of gases in the barrel being driven
through the aforesaid small opening into the cylinder, forces back the piston, and
spring or springs, the said piston communicates with the breech-mechanism in such a
manner as to unlock the saine so that it can then be forced back by the kick recoil, or
suitable springs, as and for the purposes previously mentioned. It may be readily
understood that, as the said cylinder is placed preferably at some distance from the
breech, I may carry a rod, passing through suitable guides, from it to the breech
mechanism, or I may utilise the ramrod for this purpose, connecting it with the
piston by suitable projections. Further in order that the said piston may be readily
cleaned, I may either secure it firmly to the barrel by means of the cylinder which
may have a screw plug, that can be readily removed, at the end, or instead of which
the cylinder may form part of or be held in its proper position by the band used to
secure the fore-end and barrel together, thus it could be readily detached when
required. This piston can, if not required to be used, be arranged to be pushed
forward and cover the opening into the barrel thus preventing any gas entering to
operate the same. I may also line or make these parts of any suitable non-corrosive
metal, such as nickel, or phosphor-bronze and also any or all of the springs or breech
action, or if of other metal then plated-I may dispense with the aforesaid cylinder
altogether, and instead, cause the barrel itself to recoil, as the bullet leaves the muzzle,
against the resistance of one or more springs at the same time causing the breech
action, or bolt, to be unlocked from the barrel as it is driven back by the kick or
recoil, compressing suitable springs as herebefore described, or instead of these
springs, I may use a liquid, contained in a suitable reservoir having an air chamber
to take up the shock of the recoil, at the same time causing a small quantity of the
liquid to be ejected into the barrel to cool and lubricate it, or springs and a liquid
may be used in combination, this arrangement being more suitable for arms of larger
calibre In rifles, or weapons fired from the hand or shoulder, I may place the afore-
said springs in any suitable position, under the barrel, behind the bolt or plunger,
within the body, or in the stock of the weapon. Should it be desired to use the arm
as a repeater, then I may use any sort of magazines, detachable or otherwise, placed
under the barrel as in the Winchester or Colts rifles, in the stock, or attachable to the
body of the weapon, as in the Mannlicher, or similar weapons. If desired the
magazines may be held in reserve and the weapon used as an ordinary breech-loader
the breech mechanism being worked by hand should any mishap occur; a lever or
other suitable arrangement being used for this purpose-or again, as each cartridge
is automatically extracted and ejected, as previously described, I may make use of a
small bolt or spring to lock the breech until a fresh cartridge has been inserted, this
locking device may be controlled by the trigger, or other means; Further, the
sliding barrel may be locked in its place unless the trigger is pulled-It is found
in practice that bad or defective rifling prevents the best results being obtained by
hese improved arms. I prefer therefore, without thus limiting myself, to use barrel
naving grooves formed like, or somewhat on the same principle as the Metford o

page_text: Lancaster weapons, having preferably an incresing or accelerated twist of groove;
instead of using the ordinary crescent shaped grooves, I prefer to cut a notch in
the middle of the cutter and also if desired form the edges so that slight ridges
are left at the sides and middle of such grooves : Should these weapons be required
for shot, as well as ball, then, such grooving or rifling may only begin a short
distance from the muzzle the rest of the barrel being bored smooth and only con-
tracted at the muzzle where rifled, or in double guns, one barrel may be fully rifled
and the other, only as previously described at the muzzle-I intend to apply the
aforesaid improvements, or modifications thereof, to all classes of military, sporting,
single or repeating magazine weapons, rifles, guns of whatever description, pistols and
revolvers. A slot may be cut in the breech-body and closed by a thumb-screw, so
that, the barrel may be readily changed or secured. Two or more barrels may be
used, if desired, with their corresponding breech-actions. Should the weapon or arm
be too heavy to be fired from the shoulder, I may make use of any suitable support,
such as a tripod, to which the barrel or barrels may be pivoted. When applied to
revolvers, I prefer to make use of the cylinder and piston as previously described, so
that, the exploding gases forcing it back cause it to rotate the chambers and recock
the hammer at each discharge, a small spring catch being used to prevent it so doing
as the trigger is liberated by the finger, this locking catch being brought into play by
the pressure on the trigger at each discharge. In pistols (repeaters) a similar catch
is used for the same purpose and the magazine placed preferably in the stock, a
small flap being left at the side, or other part, for reloading purposes. The chamber
that receives the cartridge may extend a short distance within the barrel and the
rim of the cartridge be made smaller than is usually done if desired. Should it be
desired to use these weapons as ordinary breech-loaders, then, arrangement is made,
by turning a bolt, or other means, so that the spring taking up the recoil, if to
powerful to be readily drawn back by hand, may be disconnected and not used.
These weapons may also be arranged to be fired by electricity, instead of by a blow on
the cap or cartridge. The cartridge chamber and also the interior of the barrel may
be plated to prevent corrosion. Any known safty pin or arrangement may be used
to lock the firing pin in a position of safty.
Dated this Second day of November A D 1886

page_text: RICHARD PAULSON of Boon Hills, Langwith, in the County of Nottingham,
Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in what manner the
same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by the
following statement :—
The object of my Invention for Improvements in Breechloading and Repeating
Firearms, is to make or construct such arms, or weapons, so that advantage can be
taken, if desired, of the kick or recoil, in combination, or otherwise with the force of
the gases generated by the explosion as the weapon is discharged; to operate the
breech mechanism so that the exploded shell, or cartridge is extracted, ejected and
the arm again prepared ready for firing.
In carrying out and applying this invention, I prefer to use the well known
rebounding hammer, or striker, this hammer is arranged so that it cannot be
effectively used, or any pressure brought to bear upon the cap, unless the breech
action is securely locked. The breech-action and locking arrangement I prefer to
enclose in the body, or shoe of the weapon-In unloading, any suitable lever, or
other arrangement may be used to operate the breech-action-The barrel itself may
be secured in its place as heretofore, in which case I may utilise the force of the
exploding gases, so that they may cause the breech mechanism to be operated, (see
revolver); To accomplish this I prefer to make a small inclined perforation into the
barrel, lining the same with any suitable non-corrosive metal to prevent it being
injuriously effected by the explosive gases, this perforation is made to communicate
with a small cylinder, placed under, or at the side of the barrel; inside this cylinder
I place a small piston, which is held in its place by a small coiled or other spring-
At the instant of discharge the pressure of gases in the barrel being driven through
the aforesaid small opening into the cylinder forces back the piston and spring or
springs.
It may be readily understood that as the said cylinder is placed preferably at some
distance from the breech, I may carry a rod passing through suitable guides from it
to the breech mechanism, or I may utilise the ramrod for this purpose, connecting it
with the piston by suitable projections; Further in order that the said piston may be
readily cleaned, I may either secure it firmly to the barrel by means of the cylinder,
which may have a screw plug, that can be readily removed at the end, or instead of
which the cylinder may form part of or be held in its proper position by the band or
clip used to secure the foreend and barrel together, thus it can be readily detached
when required. This piston can, if not required to be used be arranged to be pushed
forward and cover the opening into the barrel, thus preventing any gas entering to
operate the same I may line or make these parts of any suitable non-corrosive metal
such as nickel or phosphor-bronze and also any one of the springs or breech action,
or if of other metal, then plated-I may dispense with the aforesaid cylinder

page_text: alltogether and instead cause the barrel itself to recoil, as the bullet leaves the muzzle,
against the resistance of one or more springs, at the same time cause the breech
action to be unlocked from the barrel, so as to be driven back by the kick or recoil,
compressing suitable springs.
In rifles or weapons fired from the hand or shoulder, I may place the aforesaid
springs in any suitable position, under the barrel within the body, or in the stock of
the weapon-Should it be desired to use the arm as a repeater, then I may use any
sort of magazine, placed under the barrel as in Winchester or Colts rifles, or in the
stock: If desired the magazine may be held in reserve and the weapon used as an
ordinary breech-loader, the breech mechanism being worked by hand, a lever or other
suitable arrangement being used for this purpose-Further the sliding barrel may be
locked in its place unless the trigger is pulled.
It is found in practice that bad or defective rifling prevents the best results being
obtained in using these improved arms, I prefer therefore, without thus limiting myself,
to use barrels having grooves formed like, or somewhat on the same principle as the
Metford or Lancaster weapons, having preferably an increasing or accelerated twist of
groove, instead of using the ordinary cresent shaped groves, I prefer to cut a notch
in the middle of the cutter and also if desired, form the edges, so that only slight
ridges are left at the sides, or middle of such grooves; Should these weapons be
required for shot as well as ball, then such grooving or rifling, may only begin a
short distance from the muzzle, the rest of the barrel being bored smooth and only
contracted at the muzzle where rifled, or in double guns one barrel may be fully
rified and the other only as previously described, at the muzzle-These improvements
or a modification thereof may he applied to rifles, guns, pistols and revolvers-A slot
may be cut in the breech body and closed by a thumb-screw, so that the barrels may
be readily changed or secured: Two or more barrels may be used if desired, with
their corresponding breech actions-When applied to Revolvers, I prefer to make use
of the cylinder and piston as previously described, so that the exploding gasses
forcing it back, causes it to rotate the chambers and recock the hammer at each
discharge, as small spring catch being used to prevent it doing so as the trigger is
liberated by the finger, this locking catch being brought into play by the pressure on
the trigger at eaclı discharge-In pistols and rifles a similar catch may be used for
the said purpose, and the magazine placed preferably in the stock, a small flap being
left at the side or other part for reloading purposes.
In order that the said invention may be more fully understood, I now proceed to
to describe the same with reference to the five sheets of drawings annexed.
Fig. 1 shews the application of my invention to an ordinary revolver.
The piston A, placed under the Farrel is operated by the gases generated by the
explosion, passing through the small perforation B. in the barrel and forces the sliding
rod C. against the resistance of the spring D. And presses back the hammer E.
thereby cocking it and turning the chamber by means of the pin F. engaging in the
teeth G. in the ordinary way, the small lever is controllable by the trigger and the
spring; thus the pin H. may be made to enter the catch J. which retains the sliding
rod C. back against the pressure of the spring D. until the trigger is released from
the pressure of the finger as the weapon is fired, when thus liberated the sliding
rod . is forced back into its original position by the spring D. the weapon is thus
again ready for firing; while without the aid of the said lever K. and locking pin H.
to retain the rod at each discharge as aforesaid one pull, or pressure, on the trigger
would cause the whole of the chambers to be discharged in rapid succession.
Fig. 2. shews also in vertical section the application of my invention to an ordinary
drop down sporting rifle or gun.
The chamber A 1. and the sliding pin B2 I prefer to place under the barrel, just in
ront of the break-off C. a perforated screw L. is made to communicate with the
hamber A 1. in which the sliding rod works and the action is as follows-
As the weapon is discharged, a small portion of the gas generated by the explosion
s forced through the small perforation in the barrel M. as in the other weapons,
assing down the hollow screw L. into the chamber A 1. forces back the sliding

page_text: rod B2 which by any suitable means, such as the taper point N. by forcing down the
lever O. may be made to recock the weapon at each discharge, the small lump P. on
the underside, at the same time causing the spring catch Q. to engage with the pin R.
where it is retained until the breech is opened by means of any suitable, or the usual
levers, operated by hand as heretofore, when just before the barrels have been
depressed to their full extent the inclined point of the spring Q. is forced upwards by
the point S. on hinge of the breakoff, the spring then causes the piece T. to jump
quickly forward carrying with it the usual ejector and rod V. the quick jerk thus
extracts and ejects the empty cartridge case clear of the gun, a flat spring may be
used instead of the spiral one W. for giving the required impulse. If a fresh
cartridge be now placed in the breech, the force and action of closing the weapon will
cause the hinged piece T. and also the sliding rod V. to assume the respective positions
shewn in the drawing, the spring at the same time being compressed. This action it
will be readily understood is caused by the end of the break off bearing against the
face or front of the hinged piece T.
By removing the pin R. the spring catch is prevented from retaining the piece T.
back, thus as soon as the breech is opened the spring W. would, by pressing forward
the rod V. and extractor cause the cartridge to be extracted but not ejected.
By simply turning or replacing the screw L. so that the exploding gases cannot
enter the chamber A 1 to force back the pin B the arm might be cocked in any of
the usual ways, as for instance, by dropping the barrels in hammerless guns, at the
same time the spring catch Q by the pressure of the lever O. or other suitable means
may be made to engage with the pin R. and thus the spent cartridge be ejected as
the arm is opened.
In double barreled weapons, by duplicating the action of the sliding pin B2 and
parts shewn in Fig. 2. both, or each separate hammer might be cocked by the force
of the exploding gases as previously described and both or each separate cartridge be
extracted and ejected.
A single perforated screw might be made to answer for double barrels ; if it had two
openings therein, each communicating with its separate piston piston and barrel-
I may make one barrel smoth and the other rifled, or they may be simply rifled at
the muzzle only, but with one or more slight grooves extending further down the
barrel as shewn in Fig 3. This rifling, or grooves may be of any pattern, with or
without an increasing spiral or twist, as in the well known Metford rifling, Patented
1865 No. 2488, or it may be on the system previously in 1872 No. 559 known as
Murphy's. But the rifling I most prefer, is on the plan shewn in Fig 4 and 5. In
rifling the former, I make use of a cutter shaped as shewn in section Fig. 6, the
cutting edge of which is shaped so as to cut a half-round groove as in the Metford
and Lancaster rifling and preferably with an accelerated or increasing twist or pitch,
by means of the slight cut made in the edge of the rifling tool, a small bead is left
in the middle of the grooves, but I do not confine myself to this particular form of
cutter to produce the said rifling as it may readily done by having duplicate tools.
The bead is clearly shewn in Fig. 4. Or the cutter may be so shaped as to produce
a ratchet shaped groove with, or without, an increasing spiral as in the Metford
rifling, but this groove instead of having a sharp corner at its greatest depth may be
rounded off, as in Fig. 5. Further instead of the deepest part A³ being the bearing
edge, I prefer to make the twist or turn in the barrel so that the gradual slope B. 4.
is the bearing edge.
very
I may make the air space A¹ Fig. 2 in the cylinder larger if desired so that
slight escape of gas from the barrel is sufficient to heat and expand the air contained
therein sufficiently to drive back the sliding rod or pin as required or
may place
the spring W. above the sliding rod B2 so that on entering the gases may force it
away instead of towards the breech, until such gases are spent, when the spring
would force it back towards the breech with power enough to operate the same, and
as previously described.
I prefer to cover or make the parts subject to the action of the explosive gases of
any noncorrosive metal, such as nickel.

page_text: Fig 7, sheet 3, shews more clearly the action of a drop-down gun or rifle as
previously shewn in Fig 2-and for the sake of clearness the piston and sliding pin
operated by the explosive gases, although I may use it in both weapons-is omitted
and the weapon is shewn cocked, by the action of depressing the barrels being made
to act on the cocking lever O. in a manner well known to gunmakers.
The action of the arm is as follows, the weapon having been discharged and the
usual lever or locking bolt being withdrawn by hand, so that the barrels M. can be
depressed the lug A' by bearing the lever O. upwards causes the main spring O¹ to
be compressed thus cocking the arm, at the same time the extractor V. V. being
forced outwards by the action of the tooth F. which is partly rotated by the point or
end of the body at C. in the usual manner and while thus rotating, it forces upwards
the slotted piece T. by means of the small catch Q. until it is free of the retaining
catch P. on the fore-end J. then the force of the compressed spring W. acting on the
back of the slotted piece T. throws it sharply forward against the end of the
extractor V. V. driving it forward with a quick jerk, until it is brought up by
the end of the screw B. in the usual manner thus causing the exploded cartridge or
cartridges to be ejected, the whole action being almost identical with that previously
shewn in Fig 2.-If a double barreled arm is used, then in order to retain the
unexploded cartridge in the barrel while ejecting the spent one, I may make use of
the following means.-Through the spindle of the extractor V. V. I pass, through a
suitable opening the rod S. Figs 7. and 8, this rod is connected or scewed into the
end of the extractor spindle, which I divide about the middle, under this part a small
slot is cut at D' in which the pin D2 may work, so as to act as follows. Supposing
the left-hand barrel to have been fired, and the cocking bolt withdrawn so that the
barrels could be depressed, as shewn in Fig. 7. the force exerted by the mainspring C¹
on the lever O. causes it to force downwards the spring catch P. which in its turn
pushes the rod or pin D2 which being thus caused to bear upon one side of the
extractor rod V. above it, causes it to slightly rotate as it is pushed forward by the
tooth F. this slight rotary motion being communicated by the rod S. to the head
piece, so that it projects a little over the rim or base of the unexploded cartridge, and
thus retains it in its place while the other is ejected as previously described.
It must be clearly understood that in double-barreled weapons, the parts shewn in
the drawing, would where required, be duplicated, thus, should both barrels be fired
then instead of only one pin D2 being acted upon by the lever O. and the spring
catch P. its duplicate pin would also be brought into play, thus causing the pressure
on both sides of the extractor rod V. to be equal-which instead of being rotated
either to the right or left, according to which barrel was fired-it would remain
together with the rod S. and head piece S³ central, thus neither of the cartridges
being retained by it, they would in this case both be ejected by the quick blow given
on the end of the extractor V. by the spring acting on the slotted piece T, or I dis-
pense with the rod S. and use instead the usual divided or split extractor duplicating
the spring W. and slotted piece T.-I may also although not shewn in Fig 7. use
the piston and cylinder as shewn in Fig 2. sheet 2. to recock the arm, this is done
by causing the sliding pin B2 Fig. 2. to act on and push forward the lower part of
the lug A Fig. 7. which may be dovetailed on under the lug A', so that it could
slide a short distance backwards or forwards as required the inclined point A³ by
forcing up the lever O. being made to recock the arm at each discharge-Or instead
of doing this, the drop down barrels may be secured in their place by a small bolt or
pin R. passing through the lug A' Fig. 9. a slot or opening being cut in the breech
body at R2 Fig. 7. closed by a thumb screw or other means, which being removed
the pin R. Fig. 9. would readily drop out, so that the barrel or barrels could then be
readily changed or removed-This pin R. may also be used to work the lever O2 and
other parts in cocking instead of the inclined point A³ Fig. 7. the perforation N. in
the lug being made oblong instead of round thus allowing the pin R. room to move
slightly forward accordingly as one or other of the levers 02 were made to press
upon it.
Fig. 10, sheet 3 shews a slight modification of the usual lock action, in which the

page_text: main-spring, instead of the one shewn in Fig. 7. may be used, the hammers being
made preferably rebounding in the usual way, but so that they cannot be effectively
used, or any pressure brought to bear on the cap, unless the breech-action is first
securely locked and the trigger pulled. I use the following arrangement, over the
end of the usual sear I place a second divided or forked piece D as soon as the
hammer is fully cocked by the lever 02 the point of this divided fork engages in
the notch B. as usual, but at the same time the pressure of the sear spring B³ causes
the end of the true sear to be raised into the second catch or slot C. made in the
middle of the hammer although it does not bear thereon, unless through any violent
jerk, or shock, should cause the first sear to become disengaged from the catch B.
when instead of the arm being thus fired, the hammer would be brought up by the
end of the true sear lodging in the notch C. In firing the arm by pulling the trigger
in the ordinary way the pressure put upon the end of the true sear D³ would cause
it to becom depressed clear of the deep notch C. and by bearing on the face of the
forked sear it would be forced from the catch B. and the hammer thus liberated.
Further a second half-cock is made in the hammer at A. so that in the event of the
barrels being only slightly instead of fully depressed, this half cocking catch would
engage with the sear and thus prevent the hammers coming in contact with the
strikers Fig. 11 shews an enlarged section of the hammer cut through at the
line F. F-Fig 12 shews the breech end of the barrels.
S3 is the head of the extractor and the rotating head of the rod S³, to receive which
a slight opening is made in the face of the breek off body as shewn in Fig. 13. B*
and Fig. 7 into which it fits when the breech is closed.
On sheet 4 is shewn a further application of my invention to a repeating arm.
A. is the hammer, B is the barrel, C is the point rounded off so as to recock the
hammer A, as the barrel B recoils, D is the rod for retaining the hammer A cocked
by engaging it at D² until the trigger E' is pulled, E2 is a spring for depressing the
trigger until the hinged piece E attached thereto is brought below the end of the
rod D, at F, a catch made to receive it in the body F of the arm-and retain it at
each discharge. G is a spiral spring attached to the slotted piece R, H is the main-
spring for operating the hammer A, J is the striker rendered rebounding by the
spring J, K is the cartridge ready for being fired, L is the slot in the end of the
hinged block M into which the hammer A must enter and thus lock the binged
block M before it can reach the end of the striker J, after the hammer has delivered
the required blow, the spiral spring J¹ causes both the striker J and the hammer A.
to rebound slightly, thus no pressure would be brought to bear upon the cap in the
cartridge K as the block M was sharply closed, neither could the hammer A be
effectively used to expode it, unless the block M was closed and securely locked by
the point of the hammer A, as it entered the slot L; N is a strong spiral spring
placed behind the barrel B, to take up the recoil-O, O are the extractors, embedded
in the breech end of the barrel B, which together with the hinged block M, is attached
thereto by the pin or bolt Q and to which also the rotating pin P is connected this pin
workes between the two guides R2 and R³ on the slotted piece R so that as the
block M swings open it partly turns or rotates the pin P which acting on the guide R³
pushes back the slotted piece R so that the cartridge K³ can enter the opening T,
then as the block M is closed the pin P being moved back to its original position
and bearing on the face of the guide R³ draws forward the slotted piece R and the
cartridge K³ up the inclined face of U until it is nearly home in the chamber V and
into which it is forced by the face of the hinged block M. as it closes; The spring G
being attached to the end of the piece R, is compressed by the slight projection B²
under the barrel B. The motion of the barrel as it moves forward under the impulse
of the spring.N tends to close the block M at the same time the spring G, by exerting
its pressure against the end of the piece R, tends to draw it sharply forward carrying
with it the pin P, by the aid of the guides R2 and R³ this pin P being attached to the
bolt Q causes it together with the block M to rotate so as to close it sharply after
each discharge. S is a compressed spring placed in the stock of the weapon for
forcing upwards the cartridges K* contained therein, so that one is extracted each

page_text: time the weapon is discharged or the breech block M opened wide. K² is the spent
and extracted cartridge, Fig. 143 shews a section of the arm cut through on the line
from X to X and Fig. 142 a section on the line from Y to Y Fig. 14'. Fig. 144 shews
an enlarged plan of the cocking lever W, hammer A, Mainspring H sliding rod D
and trigger arrangement. Fig. 14' sheet 4 shews the application of my invention to
a repeating pistol in which the kick or recoil is made to operate the breech mechanism
so that the exploded cartridge is extracted, ejected and the arm again prepared ready
for firing.
The action of the arm is as follows, on the hammer A, being cocked, either by
hand, or by the recoil of the barrel B, pressing against it at C, and forcing it back,
when it is locked in that position by the point of the rod D, to engage it at D² this
rod D, is controlled by the hinged piece E on the trigger E'; on the trigger E¹ being
pulled, the point of the hinged piece E by pressing against the underside of the rod D,
forces it upwards until it is free from the retaining catch F when the spring G, draws
it a short distance forward away from the catch D² the hammer A. being thus
liberated is caused to impinge sharply forward by the mainspring H, the blow being
received by the head of the striker J, causing it to explode the cartridge K, at the
same time the hammer A, being embedded in the slot L at the end of the hinged piece M,
Fig. 14 and 142 acts as a bolt, locking it securely until the recoil takes place, which
drives back the barrel B, against the resistance of the spiral spring N, as previously
mentioned acting against the face of the hammer A, so as to force it backwards, at
the same time unlocking the hinged piece M, which by the combined action of the
recoiling barrel and the pressure from the base of the cartridge K, is caused to swing
sharply outwards as shewn in Fig. 142 by this means the spent cartridge K² with or
without the aid of the extractors O, is ejected, as the hinged piece, or swinging
block M, swings outwards, it carries with it the rotating pin P, Figs. 14' and 143,
this pin working between the two guides on the slotted piece R, Figs. 14° and 146
causes it, as the swinging block M. opens outwards, to be driven backwards, so that a
fresh cartridge being forced upwards by the springs S, at the end of the magazine,
enters the opening T, made in the slotted piece R, for that purpose; The position of
this cartridge is shewn in Fig. 142 K³. As the barrel B, recoils against the spring N,
the small spring G, is compressed, then as the sliding barrel B, is again driven forward
into its original position, as in Fig. 14' the action of the compressed spring G. together
with the forward motion of the barrels B, causes the hinged piece M, again to close
sharply, the slotted piece R, at the same time as it moves forward, carries with it the
cartridge K³ up the incline U. into the chamber V in the barrel B, when it is forced
completely home by the face of the hinged block M, as it closes, the arm is thus
automatically loaded and the hammer A, recocked at each discharge until the magazine
is exhausted-The hinged piece E on the trigger, acts only in one direction it being
necessary to remove the pressure of the finger on the trigger E' so that the spring E²
placed above it can act to force it downwards until the point of the hinged piece E
can spring forward under the end of the rod D, which is caused to engage in the
retaining catch F at each discharge otherwise the action of reloading automatically
the arm is so rapid, that there would not be time to remove the pressure of the finger
on the trigger and it would with one pressure be discharged continually until the
magazine was exhausted.
Fig. 14' shews the rifling I prefer to use, being somewhat on the Metford plan with
or without an increasing twist of groove; The edges instead of being left flat at the
top, are rounded off so that no fouling can accumulate thereon.
Although I have shewn this improved arrangement as applied to a repeating pistol,
it is evident that, by simply adding a stock as shewn by the dotted lines C, C, the
arm could be fired from the shoulder and instead of using the short barrel B, I may
use a much longer, either rifled or smooth bored and thus have a repeating shot gun
or rifle, I may also make use of the magazine as shewn in the drawing Fig. 14, a
flap being made therein for reloading it, or it may be placed under the barrel as in
the well known Winchester arms-In case of misfire, or to unload these arms,
the
B

page_text: hinged block M, is opened by hand and as it is forced back, pressure is brought to
bear on the extractors O. O. so that the cartridge is ejected from the barrel.
In Fig. 14, Sheet 5 is shewn the application of my invention to a repeating rifle.
In this drawing the magazine is placed under the barrel, instead of in the stock, the
other parts and the action of the arm, as it is fired, is almost the same as previously
shewn and described in Figs. 141 to 14' sheet 4, I have therefore in Fig. 14
sheet 5 used the same letters to indicate the various parts as used in sheet 4. A, is
the hammer, B is the barrel, the point rounded off so as to recock the hammer A.
E' is the trigger, E a hinged or rocking lever operated by the trigger E1, E2 is a
spring for lifting the rocking piece E so that after the trigger is liberated by the
finger, this spring causes the locking bolt or catch E³ to lock the barrel B, at E
being forced into the notch by the rocking lever E, F is the catch in which the
hinged piece F attached to the hammer A, is retained as the hammer is cocked, F2 is
the body of the arm, H is the mainspring, J the striker and J¹ the spiral spring for
causing it to rebound, K. is the cartridge contained in the barrel B, ready for firing,
K are the cartridges retained in the magazine placed under the barrel, M is the
hinged block (as previously described on sheet 4) N is the spiral spring placed behind
the barrel B to take up the kick or recoil. is the spiral spring placed in the
magazine tube S₁ to press forward the cartridges K* contained in the tube placed
in the foreend C³, and C is the stock for firing the arm from the shoulder.
The action of the arm, Fig. 14 sheet 5, is identical with that shewn on sheet 4
when fired.
On the trigger E¹ being pulled, it forces the rocking lever E upwards, so as to
force F¹ from the retaining catch F, thus liberating the hammer A, which by the
action of the mainspring H, is thrown sharply forward, so as to first lock the hinged
piece M securely and then drive forward the striker J, compressing the spring J', the blow
having been delivered, this spring J'is made strong enough to cause both the hammer
and the striker to rebound a short distance; but the hammer A, is not thus driven so
far back as to unlock the hinged block M-The striker J as it receives the blow of
the hammer A, explodes the cartridge K, which is retained in the barrel until the
bullet, or projectile, leaves the muzzle, when the kick drives back the barrel B against
the resistance of the spring N, in doing this, the point C is brought against the face of
the hammer A and forces it backwards, at the same time unlocking the hinged block M―
which is forced open by the base of the cartridge acting on its face, as the said
cartridge and the barrel are driven back by the recoil, which it is found is also
sufficient to cause it to be sharply ejected; The action of closing the block M and
inserting a fresh cartridge is the same as previously described and shewn applied to a
pistol on sheet 4; for the sake of clearness they are omited on sheet 5 in Fig. 14.
The action of the trigger is somewhat different in Figs. 14 sheet 5, as applied to a
rifle, it being placed behind, instead of in front of the magazine; As the hammer A
is cocked by the recoiling barrel, F1 first engages in the catch F8 on the rocking
piece E, this rocking piece also tends to force upwards, as the trigger is pulled, the
cartridge K but not so as to prevent the catch F engaging in ; In Fig. 14 the
trigger is shewn pulled and the catch F¹ liberated, this catch slips from the lever E
to the catch F as the trigger is liberated.
I also intend to slightly modify the barrel and magazine shewn in Fig. 14, so that
shot instead of ball cartridges can be used, 1 prefer, in doing so, to use a smooth bored
barrel and a larger magazine tube, or the barrel may be rifled only at the muzzle.
A flap may be placed at the side or end of the magazine tube Fig. 14, as used in
Colts and Winchester arms for reloading, being so well known as to need no description
or drawings.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said
invention and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is―

page_text: from the explosion, so that a sliding rod being driven back against the resistance of
a spring, or springs, operates the breech mechanism in such a manner that the arm is
automatically prepared for again being fired substantially as described.
2nd. A Rifle, pistol, or other firearm in which the force of the kick or recoil is
utilized for extracting the empty shell and operating the breech mechanism by
means of a recoiling barrel, or the force of the explosive gases substantially as
described.
3rd. The construction of a firearm with drop down barrels so that the force of the
gases generated by the explosion shall operate to recock the weapon, the locking bolt
being worked by hand substantially as described.
4th. The means employed and the tool used for producing a particular groove as
shewn and the combination of that class of grooving with an accelerated or increasing
twist as in the Metford rifling also for guns rifled in the muzzle or choked having an
increasing spiral grooves substantially as described.
5th. A ratchet shaped groove as shewn in Fig. 5 in which the edge is rounded off
combined with the Metford or an increasing twist or spiral, the turn being given to it
so that the gradually deepning side is the bearing edge, to give the required spin to
the projectile when fired substantially as described.
6th. The construction of a firearm with a drop down barrel, or barrels so that the
act of opening the breech automatically ejects the empty or spent shell and the act
of closing the said breech action is made to compress a spring or springs so that they
can be held in position until required to eject the empty shell substantially as
described.
7th. The construction of fire arms substantially as described with reference to the
drawings and description generally, with or without a magazine for automatically
loading the same.
1
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