Question about loading Colt type revolvers that have no loading lever....
- Thread starter jmars
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arcticap
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The Colt Paterson originally did not have an integral loading lever but came with a separate loading tool.
Then after several years a loading lever and capping window were incorporated into the design, and the earlier leverless production models could have been retrofitted. --->>> https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Paterson
To seat balls in the field without a rammer would depend on the model, usually either removing the barrel or cylinder, or using a brass "palm rammer" as with the snubnose revolvers.
The hinged loading tool for the Paterson is inserted into the arbor slot used for the wedge.
The NAA mini C&B .22's also come a separate bullet seating tool.
Then after several years a loading lever and capping window were incorporated into the design, and the earlier leverless production models could have been retrofitted. --->>> https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Paterson
To seat balls in the field without a rammer would depend on the model, usually either removing the barrel or cylinder, or using a brass "palm rammer" as with the snubnose revolvers.
The hinged loading tool for the Paterson is inserted into the arbor slot used for the wedge.
The NAA mini C&B .22's also come a separate bullet seating tool.
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expat_alaska
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In the case of the Colt 1848 Baby Dragoon Rammerless Pistol (aka the so-called Wells Fargo model), the end of the arbor is concave and could be used as a rammer to load the cylinder off the revolver. I would think that repeated use as such might weaken the arbor attachment point at the frame.
Jim
Jim
woodnbow
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I agree, although as usual, much depends upon how ham handed the operator is... in careful hands I imagine that arrangement was suitable and considering the frequency of use could have lasted longer than the owner.
At any rate, rammerless pistols were a compromise useful at the time and place and even today I suppose but my field pistols all carry the means to reload in the field.
whughett
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A short wooden rod of the right diameter and the butt of the gun as a hammer would work. 
expat_alaska
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A short wooden rod of the right diameter and the butt of the gun as a hammer would work.
Pretty soon the butt of the revolver would look like a Griswold & Gunnison!
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