Iver Johnson Top BreakThis is a featured page

Iver Johnson Top Break .32 S&WModel: Iver Johnson Top Break
The vague model name above refers to the several different top break revolvers manufactured by the Iver Johnson company from 1894 to 1941. The Iver Johnson is one of the few modern examples of the top break ejection system, which has almost completely be replaced by swing-out cylinders.

All Iver Johnson revolvers had a transfer bar safety system, meant to ensure that pulling the trigger would be the only way for the weapon to fire. A number of hammerless double action only models were made as well; all Iver Johnson models automatically ejected the cartridges when broken open, allowing for a swift reload. They were fairly popular pocket pistols, with a .32 Safety Automatic being used to kill President William McKinley.



Specifications:
Weight:
0.8 lb (0.3 kg).
Length:
6.2 in (158 mm).
Barrel Length:
3 in (76 mm).
Cartridge:
.32 S&W
.38 S&W
Action:
Single or double action
Double action only (Safety Hammerless)
Muzzle Velocity:
680 ft/s (207 m/s).
Effective Range:
40 yd (37 m).
Feed System:
Top break cylinder. 5, 6
Sights:
Front blade, rear notch.



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Where to find

Iver Johnson revolvers have been discontinued for quite some time, but they can be found for very low prices, along the lines of $150-200. Obviously almost all will be used.


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Complexity

As a revolver, the design is inherently less complex and less prone to malfunctions than a semi-automatic. Be careful, as the design has been discontinued for well over 60 years; many revolvers are going to be in rather poor condition. Make sure to check if your revolver is safe to use smokeless powder in.

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Controls

  • Cylinder latch: Located on top of the frame in front of the hammer.
  • Hammer: Located on the rear of the gun.

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Loading

Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.

Cannot be done.

    Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.

    1. Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
    2. Push the cylinder latch and break open the revolver to expose the rear of the cylinder.
    3. Take the appropriate number of cartridges and push them all the way into the chambers in the cylinder.
    4. Pull the front half of the revolver up and lock the halves together with a hard push.

    Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.

    1. Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
    2. Push the cylinder latch and break open the revolver to expose the rear of the cylinder.
    3. Take the appropriate number of cartridges and push them all the way into the chambers in the cylinder, leaving one chamber empty.
    4. Pull the front half of the revolver up and lock the halves together with a hard push. The cylinder should be lined up so that the empty chamber is under the hammer.

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    Unloading

    How to unload the firearm and make safe. Presented in a numbered list.

    1. Point the weapon in a safe direction. Critical step in case it accidentally discharges!
    2. Push the cylinder latch and break open the revolver to expose the rear of the cylinder. Any rounds or spent casings will be automatically ejected.
    3. Check the cylinder for any ammunition remaining.
    4. Pull the front half of the revolver up and lock the halves together with a hard push.

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    Field Stripping

    How to disassemble the firearm for cleaning. Presented in a numbered list.

    This should not be necessary for cleaning.



    chitoryu12
    chitoryu12
    Latest page update: made by chitoryu12 , May 7 2011, 12:14 AM EDT (about this update About This Update chitoryu12 Edited by chitoryu12

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