POTD: The Auto Ejecting Revolver – Silver & Fletcher “The Expert”
Sam.S 04.17.24
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! In 1884, Hugh Silver and Walter Fletcher patented a rapid unloading system for gate-style revolvers, which they integrated into Webley’s New Model RIC as an optional feature known as “The Expert”. The key function of their design was to allow users to eject a full cylinder of spent cartridges by simply pulling the trigger six times, instead of manually operating the slow ejector rod.
To prevent accidental discharge if a live round remained, Silver and Fletcher also incorporated a safety that retracted the firing pin when engaged. Around 350 of these “Expert” revolvers were produced, some purchased by the Royal Irish Constabulary and Metropolitan London Police despite their relatively high cost.
“Pictured on page 66 of “Webley Solid Frame Revolvers: Models RIC, MP, and No. 5” by Black, Davis, and Michaud where it is listed as a Webley RIC No. 1 New Model. Stephen Winkworth Silver & Co. were originally clothing retailers in the late 1830s and became travelling and military outfitters. Hugh A. Silver and Walter Fletcher’s patent No. 16078 covers the interesting ejector system. It has a beaded blade front sight, top strap groove rear sight, “SILVER & FLETCHER’S PATENT ‘THE EXPERT'” on the top of the barrel, “S.W. SILVER & Co 29 OLD BOND ST/& 67 CORNHILL LONDON” on the top strap, “.450” on the left side at the breech, “303” with the “0” stamped over a one on the opposite side, “36062” on the left side of the frame, “4062” on the face of the cylinder, Birmingham proofs, “PATENT” marked hammer safety switch, checkered grip, and lanyard ring.”
Lot 3256: Silver & Fletcher Patent “The Expert” Double Action Revolver – Scarce S.W. Silver & Co. Silver & Fletcher Patent “The Expert” Double Action Revolver. (n.d.). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved April 17, 2024, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/78/3256/silver-fletcher-patent-the-expert-double-action-revolver.
