How to Load the Lever Latch on My Walker

The Colt Walker model 1847 is a "cap and ball" black powder revolver developed by Samuel Colt, in collaboration with legendary Texas Ranger Sam Walker. The only drawback to the firearm was the loading lever latch, which would fall down upon recoil. This made multiple shots and reloading less expedient during a firefight. To keep the lever securely in position, the latch-hole typically was loaded with rawhide. The same loading and latch-securing method can be used today.

Things You'll Need

  • Powder
  • Lead balls
  • Percussion caps
  • Rawhide
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Instructions

    • 1

      Verify that the weapon is unloaded. Check to ensure each cylinder is empty, by inserting a cleaning rod into the muzzle and into each cylinder. Check each nipple to ensure no percussion caps are present.

    • 2

      Place the hammer at the half-cock position, and hold the muzzle upward. Pour a 50-grain powder charge into the chamber nearest the loading cutout on the revolver's frame.

    • 3

      Press a lead ball into the chamber opening. Rotate the cylinder, to position the loaded chamber under the loading lever.

    • 4

      Unlatch the loading lever. Pull down on the loading lever to seat the ball properly in the chamber. Repeat with the remaining chambers in the cylinder.

    • 5

      Place a percussion cap on each nipple of the revolver. Pinch the caps to ensure the nipples fit snug.

    • 6

      Wrap a thin piece of rawhide around the loading lever latch, then push up on the loading lever. This action seats the latch back in place and secures the lever back alongside the barrel. The rawhide will apply extra pressure to the lever and keep it secured during recoil. The weapon is now loaded and ready to fire.