Tranter Model 1863
Tranter · Revolver · Out Of Production · 1863
Also known as: Tranter Patent M-1863
Overview
The Tranter Model 1863 was a solid-frame, large-bore metallic-cartridge revolver designed by William Tranter of Birmingham. Built on Tranter's proven large-frame percussion design but chambered initially for the .442 rimfire cartridge (later .450 centrefire), it was one of the first large-calibre cartridge handguns offered by an English maker. Its signature feature was a side-mounted compound lever ejector.
Specifications
| Overall Length | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Barrel Length | 165 mm (6.50") |
| Action Type | Double Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Cylinder |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .442 Rimfire · primary — also known as 54 bore, .442 RF
- .450 Centrefire — also known as .450 CF, .450 Adams
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Features: Solid Frame, Octagonal Barrel, Lever Ejector, Metallic Cartridge
Production
Production years: 1863-1868
Short production life; relatively uncommon, the centrefire variant especially rare
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: William Tranter
Discontinued: 1868
Notes
Distinct from the earlier Tranter percussion double-trigger cap-and-ball revolvers. The lever ejector was designed because a simple ejector rod would punch through the soft copper rimfire case base. Superseded around 1868 by Tranter's improved Model 1868. The centrefire variant is very rare.
Background
Tranter secured one of the first British rimfire patents in 1863 and adapted his percussion design to fire self-contained metallic cartridges, marking a key transitional step from cap-and-ball to cartridge revolvers in England.