Webley No.1 Mk.V Signal Pistol
Webley & Scott Ltd. · Pistol · Out Of Production · 1918
Also known as: Webley No.1 Mark V Flare Pistol, Webley & Scott No.1 Mk.V Signal Pistol, Pistol, Signal, No.1 Mk.V
Overview
The Webley No.1 Mk.V is a single-shot, break-action signal pistol chambered for the British 1-inch (25.4mm) flare cartridge. A wartime-simplified steel and zinc-alloy development of the earlier brass Mk.III, it was produced with roughly 50 percent parts commonality with the .455-caliber Webley Mk VI service revolver to ease manufacture. Firing coloured pyrotechnic flares rather than projectiles, it served British and Commonwealth forces for battlefield signalling and illumination through both World Wars.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 850 g (30.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 248 mm (9.76") |
| Barrel Length | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 45 m/s (148 fps) |
| Effective Range | 90 m (98 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 120 m (131 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Zinc Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 1 inch (25.4mm) Flare · primary — also known as 1 inch signal, 26.5mm flare, Caliber No.4
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Notch
- Features: Break Open Single Shot, Tip Down Barrel, Lanyard Ring, Two Piece Wood Grips, Flared Muzzle
Production
Production years: 1918-1945
Manufactured in Britain and Canada (including zinc-framed wartime patterns) for British and Commonwealth forces.
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: Webley & Scott
Discontinued: 1945
Notes
Not a combat weapon; used to launch coloured signal and illumination flares. The 1-inch bore signal cartridge was also known in British service as the No.4 caliber signal round.
Background
Break-open signal pistols like the Webley were carried by officers, aircrew, sappers and ships' crews to fire coloured star and illumination flares that coordinated attacks, marked positions and called for support long before radios were universal.