An Alternative to Cap & Ball For Self Defense
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- čas přidán 13. 04. 2022
- I am often asked, “Which cap & ball revolver is best for self-defence.”
But there is a much more effective alternative available that most people never consider.
The alternative is to get a double action revolver made late in the 19th century.
Mike Beliveau links:
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A very interesting video even to me in England where carring anything for "self defense" is a no no, handguns are definitely out of the question, even though we can legally buy antique guns we can't buy those that will fire modern ammo. At home I have shotguns, in the street I have a legal non locking 3" pocket knife....defend your 2nd amendment at all costs.
Yes you can, join a shooting club and go for your firearms licence. You can have all pistol calibre rifles and what we call LBR revolvers. Also in 22 calibre you can have semi auto rifles and pistols. Yes you do have to be a trusted and upstanding member of the public and have a very good reason for ownership, target shooting , hunting, vermin control etc. you should know this as a certificate holder?
@@vincentnastri7736 been there done that, I have a firearm certificate for my Winchester and semi auto Magtech as well as the shotgun certificate, I still can't carry a loaded handgun for self defense.
If I lived there I would carry a heavy walking cane - preferably a poly or hickory model. Learn to use it. Primary target would attacker's hands. Hands are bony and delicate. You damage their hands and they can't hurt you. Of course you would not be carrying the cane for self-defense but because your foot hurts (if you really must answer). Here in the states a walking cane is a "medical device" which is protected under the HIPPA act. I have carried a walking cane through TSA at airports with no questions asked.
Where I live in Georgia we now have "Constitutional Carry." That means no permit or state permission required. Thanks Gov. Kemp!
Us Americans are thankfully rebellious and violate gun laws all the time.
@@trentonjennings9105 congradulation on constitutional carry ! I live in Texas and we just got back our rights this September 1st👍
Owning a antique gun (pre 1899) is legal at the federal level for those who have lost their firearms rights due to past legal issues. However, possessing fixed ammunition (cartridges) for that antique gun is still a felony for prohibited possessors, and you will go to prison. I myself fall into that category, and have researched it diligently. I was involved in a self-defense shooting over 40 years ago in my early 20's, and unfortunately was a member of the armed forces at that time. I was attacked with a tire iron in broad daylight by a 7 time convicted violent felon, for eating lunch at a family restaurant that he considered his "place". I was then pursued over 7 miles by his group of thugs before being cornered and forced to defend myself with a legal firearm. I was quickly acquitted by a jury of my peers in civilian court, but was court-martialed the very next day by Military authorities. I was found guilty of manslaughter on a 5-4 vote by a military court, and lost my right to ever own a gun again. I served my time, 3.5 years in the USDB, and have never committed a crime before or since. My unjust military conviction was overturned in Federal Court on appeal, and I was completely exonerated, but the Dishonorable Discharge remained, thus making me a prohibited possessor. I've been married for 37 years now, have always had a job, raised a family, am a grandparent, and have been a pastor now for 20+ years. Doesn't matter unfortunately. That event, no matter how unfair, will be a part of my life until the day the Lord takes me home. I am in full agreement with Mike, a man shouldn't lose his right to defend himself or his family, but three and a half years was enough, I have not, and will not even chance putting myself in that position again. Most states consider cap and ball guns as firearms also, even though the Federal government does not. My particular state allows guys like me to use a cap and ball, as long as it doesn't fire or has been converted for fixed ammunition. Strangely enough, I am prohibited from owning a spring or air powered bb gun or pellet rifle, they are considered firearms in my state, but cap and ball guns are not. Be very aware of your local laws, you may "win" in court eventually, but at what cost?
Very sorry to hear that. God Bless you brother. Also, even if you were court martialed for this, thank you for your service.
In my opinion, these laws aren't for "safety". It's just about control. They always put us in harms way and get mad if we defend ourselves.
Thanks for sharing your story. I am glad that you have found a way to exercise your right despite the unfairness that you experienced (to put it lightly).
Thanks for that important clarification.
I'd like to start by saying it's a shame you faced the exception to double jeopardy. I empathize with the trouble you have endured.
To answer your question, and before I start into other things, the cost is my life. I am not in a similar situation but the answer is I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by six.
As for your dishonorable discharge, these days they are extremely easy to get changed. At the least to general or other types. Since you won the appeal your standing is pretty good. Contact your local DAV and talk to them. They may be able to help get things rolling. I know most people wouldn't care as they were older but I couldn't live with such a smear on my honor. You've lead a life I can only hope to honorably live. Get your honor back in the eyes of the government, and at the very least get your right to a soldier's sendoff when you finally go to your maker.
I'm not sure on "majority" numbers for states. I don't own that my state, FL, considers antiques as antiques all the way up to them being used in a crimes. At that point you'll get charged with all of the same infractions as using a modern firearm.
Best of luck if you do pursue a change in your discharge. A long healthy life and God bless either way.
@aaron - Check with the Veterans Benefits Administration, there is a good chance you may be able to have your discharge changed to "general." It should have been done when your conviction was overturned but... "The VA." Especially 40 years ago.
Your right! Having committed a mistake in the past, doesn't take a person's right of self defense away.
You know you can also build your own Ghost gun legally ad long as you don't sell it without a serial number and that's all the moder calibers
@@robertperry8313not legal if ur a restricted person
I don't agree. Ive been in a lot of bad relationships, have had women pushing on me, have been punched (technically, but it was a girly punch), and never hit a woman. I used to have that illness of attraction to crazy hot chicks. You either have that in you or you don't. No matter how long it's been for these dudes, they're one bad day away from doing it again.
@@danielescobar7618 Yeah while i absolutely believe in rehabilitation, when it comes to violent behavior it needs to take a very high mark to have access to guns again.
when someone shows who they are its best to take them seriously, ive been in *Bad* relationships and never once have i hit someone. But the chick who hit me absolutely went on to hit other people
@@therideneverends1697 I'm so for guns, especially living in a city with ineffective police protection, but yeah. This is my one gun control item. As for protection orders removing the right, I also Believe in it, but I think there should be harsher enforcement for false pretense or frivolous protection order claims made to be used as a harassment tool.
"If you're worrying about that group of people, well, keep worrying." Excellent advice!
You are a good man Mike.
I agree with you 100%. As a LEO I have professionally come to know MANY convicted felons. This is my take on the situation: Felon #1: Continues to engage in a life of crime - this one will be most interested in a modern self loading handgun. Felon #2: They did their time, changed their life arround and would like to protect themselves and their loved ones.
HOLY S**T ! A cop who ISN'T a doucher. Thank you for saying that. I was convicted of the most b.s. felony over 20 yrs ago in the state of ny. Haven't had a run in since. I am a family man and have been for over 16 yrs. You know what it's like using a bow and arrow for home defense ? I live in a town with 3 cops on the overnight shift. How fast you think they'll get to my family ? Laws need to be changed, man.
@@frekitheravenous516 depending on your state ,check into gun rights restoration. After my probation was done my state sent me a form for restoration gun rights, this was also over twenty years ago. It was easier than getting my drivers liscence back after a clerical error revoked it,that took six months
100%
exactly a felon who is free and willing to obey the law is a success story, not a threat.
I'm a former LEO as well. They did their time and debt. They should have their rights restored as intended.
It's refreshing to hear someone advocating for firearms rights for ALL citizens. The natural right to self defense doesn't vanish because someone broke a law.
Great video, Mike!
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.
There is more to the Bill of Rights than the 2nd Amendment. In the 5th Amendment it covers when someone committed a crime and has to face the consequences. Life, liberty, property can be taken after due process! The "liberty" part would apply to certain rights a person can lose after due process is applied.
@@1.forestrunner it doesn't say anything about not having human rights after the sentence has been served.
@@jlthearcher after the sentence is served there is a procedure to gain back all liberties. There is lately a change of applying that for non-violent felons. I believe people (citizen is not mentioned in the Bill of Rights) should get a second chance.
@@1.forestrunner if people have to ask for permission to do something, or to do it again after a sentence has been served, it's not a right it's a privelage. The process you mentioned is a violation of the natural right to self defense as is everything else which in any fashion impedes an individual's ability to protect life or property.
Mike, you get it. A prohibited person who wants to legally carry under the law is not the threat. A real criminal does not want to go the legal route. I love your attitude!!!
I live in France where antiques are unregulated, so this is great info, thanks.
And replicas
@@brettduffy1992 fortunately yes!
@@gilgsn so you can buy a cap and ball revolver modern reproduction with out any trouble that's decent at least you don't have to Fork over a few thousand dollars you can pick one of those up for a few hundred but it must be a pain to buy the powder and the primer
@@brettduffy1992 indeed, and I have a Pietta 1858 and a Colt SAA built in 1897, but I was not familiar with the S&W. Next buy will be a Colt 1851 replica :-)
@@gilgsn the Swiss 7.5 straight pull rifle is an option
Well said, Mike. Bouncing a check over a certain amount, a felony, should not remove a Constitutional Right.
>$150 in Florida will sign away your rights for life
"Possession of a firearm by a user of a controlled substance" federal felony.... ( cannabis flowers) are schedule 1 /most dangerous drug.... = 10yr/250k max ..... for smoking flowers... or taking a prescription pill you dont have a script for.... even once... like you get hurt and soneone gives you a vicodin.... your a felon....
@@sicsempertyrannis4104 :(
The government and military consider financial wrecklessness as an indicator/contributing factor/stepping stone to far worse offenses. They choose to punish early at the lowest level. Sort of nip it in the bud.
@@blackhawk7r221 LOL, no one is more finally wreck-less than the government and military.
Thank you Mike. I am the a nonviolent felon convicted 20 years ago who wants to defend my home without breaking the law. Also you are 100 percent correct the predators and people with ill intent will have any gun they want illegally.
I'm also a nonviolent "felon" who has served time in federal prison for buying rifle ammunition in a store and possessing firearms so I know the federal firearms laws better than most folks and am about to leave a comment about this but in case you do not read my comment I will tell you that it is against the law for a "felon" to possess ammuntion so we can possess antique firearms legally but can't legally possess ammuntion. Have you considered other tools of self defense to defend your home? I can help with this if you want. To give you a compliment you sure are cute.
Laws vary state by state. First look up your state laws - they will be on the internet and free to read. But you also need legal advice, because precedent in other cases may modify the application of gun laws as interpreted by a layman. Many lawyers will still give a free or low cost first consultation. Sometimes the best you can do is trust the 'big sky' theory that says it is unlikely you will be attacked - unless you go to or live in high crime areas. Also, despite comments here, not all states regulate ammo ownership at all. Like I said, state laws vary.
@@russfauver2495 May I ask how you got caught buying ammo from a store and having a rifle?
@@BillyWardPhotography Somebody told on me.
Honestly you all should have whatever you want, we non felons feel awful for you! Even ex violent offenders who actually see their ways deserve a way to prove it. Restrict to black powder pistols for 5 years. It’s tempting but not effective enough for mass damage. Still able to kill 1 person you’re mad at. If they can resist any bad doing for 5 year, maybe they really did mean it. That’d be insane for an ex gangster for instance to go without a gun fight.
As a fellow PA resident, I wish that you would run for elected office and WIN. We need people with good logic and common sense in our government. I appreciate your conservative, balanced, and grace-oriented advice. I also believe that people should have a right to defend themselves from law-breakers, home intruders, etc. Keep on truckin’; thanks for raising awareness of these issues
I agree felons should be able to own a gun. That gun and black power cap and ball like 1858 Remington is illegal for a felon. The purchase is off the radar but illegal to have. Maybe a front loaded muzzle loader not sure. You get caught yr F. It should be allowed in your house at least.
Ive recently fell in love with S&W N frames as I picked up a 629. I think the main reason I like them so much is because this was the gun of my father and also his father (Model 29) that I was in awe of as a child but as a young man didnt appreciate because i was caught up in all things "tactical". Im in my late 40s now and these older revolvers seem more like works of art that have stood the test of time while also being more than capable as a self defense tool, regardless of the year they were made.
Thank you Mike, I am a PTSD veteran. I have never commited a felony but was picked off the xtreet by police because a shrink asked them to. I had made a mental health appointment for the next day, but when I told him and hung up he sent police after me. Within, a year that shrink was committed to the State hospital with a mental illness and as far as I know hasn't been released. The next time I tried to purchase a single shot shotgun, I was refused on the background check. I have tried to find out why the refusal when I was sighed myself into the hospital after the police picked me up. I was never involuntarily committed. I served in the U.S. ARMY and The Pennsylvania National Guard for a sum of 19 years of combined service. I was hounorablely discharged and will receive my pension at age 60. How is it that a veteran is denied his 2nd amendment rights but was never discharged section 8 ? Thank you.
.
Richard I thank you for your candor in discussing your experience with ATF. I am infuriated by the way that you were treated in response to the bias of an apparently unstable person given undeserved authority. I wish you well in your quest for restoration of your right to life and its defence.
Thank you for sharing, I hope that you don't give up your fight to get your rights back
You will need to get a lawyer and fight it, sad that you must spend money to keep your rights.
Unfortunately, fighting the system cost money. Going with the flow may cost your life. I recommend catching them up in their lie. Apply for a concealed carry, and have the state justify their denial thru appeal. Then take that to court. If the judge denies you, take it higher. You may find evidence the Feds got their triple hearing protection on.
Us vets already know No one will stand up for us. Make them defend themselves, as cheap as possible. And I am not a lawyer, but evidence rules. You may want to consult GOA or USCCA or others.
I am sorry this happened to you. This is exactly why I don't see mental health people. I have always had a bad feeling about it. The idea they pretend to be there to help, while dissarming you makes my blood boil.
"Shall not be infringed" means to me that anyone, whose not in jail or on probation, has the right to protect family and self.
Just my opinion..
Thanks for the video.
so, the people who is on probation has no right to self-defense?
Nah if your on probation it' shouldn't matter either. You either need reformation on jail or they shouldn't let you out. Thats the big problem is that jails in america do not reform criminals they simply house them in dangerous conditions with no prospect of ever bettering their behaviors. In order for the 2a to work as intended anyone who is not currently locked up should be allowed a firearm. ALL GUN LAWS ARE INFRINGMENTS.
Their right shall not be infringed even on probation
Not just your opinion, but many - including founding fathers. I forget whom and it what letter but I'll paraphrase and you can do some research if you'd like but something to the effect of "No free man shall be denied the right to carry arms" is one of the famous founding father quotes.
Even folks on probation or have served time had rights in the past once time was served. I believe in restoration of rights when time is served.
Excellent video. Thanks!. I recently won a ..38 S&W break top. Most will use commercial smokless powders in these. They should watch this video as it the rare example. I happen to have 2 lbs of 3F that I had no use for. Bufflo Arms sells BP loads for these, but the cost per round is about $1.50 each. I'll load it with 3F using Missouri .361 bullets of the correct hardness (Bhn 12), and use W231 for self defense loads. My cost per load for 500 rounds includes all components and dies...0.48 cents each.
This was a very informative and interesting video, I enjoyed every bit. I've been a revolver fan for years and always enjoy learning new things about them.
I am a retired police officer. I agree with you. You did a great job separating state & federal laws. As always, your thoughtfulness is appreciated. Best wishes.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.
@@duelist1954 please i have a question : to what types of revolvers your Smith&Wessons in 38sw AND 44-40 are similar ? It's impossible to find holsters molded for them since they're so ancient...
@@gigachad6885 You might be able to use nylon Uncle Mike’s holsters. S&W N-Frame for the .44 and J-Frame for the .38
@@duelist1954 thanks for the answer, but since nylon isn't very sturdy i'll try to find it in leather or kydex
@@gigachad6885 In that case you may need custom made holsters.
Your right. There are “paper felons” then criminals. Any man who is charged, not convicted, charged with domestic violence is prohibited a gun. I know several such were no violence was involved the wife simply charged as such as part of a divorce.
I know a woman who is now a felon because she alter her car insurance form and offered it to a cop on a traffic stop. Altering an “official form” is a felony. I could go on.
Very true I think the laws need adjusting
@@lawson9102
More than that. Things that were simply rude twenty years ago are now criminalised at a low level. Your dog going on the neighbours yard comes to mind.
And things that were misdemeanours twenty years ago are now felonies.
But worse still. Things that were very serious are now less so. There seems to be a trend to make many things a crime, all about equal in severity. It’s about time to overhaul the criminal justice system.
Fox out.
@@MrJento I agree
@@lawson9102
The question we have to ask is how?
Mike had the courage to address what is a hot button issue these days. And his demographic is decidedly conservative. Not much support to defund police. And that’s not the answer. Unless you are a member of that select group “the usual suspects”. And such do exist.
So does gun control. The debate rages. And most gun owners, if they speak, wrap themselves in the American flag and proclaim that they are “honest law abiding gun owners”. As if the distinguish themselves from those who are not. But which laws. At what level? I read the constitution regularly, to keep refreshed. I see no mention in the bill of rights to “law abiding people”. I see where “the people” may speak freely. I see where “the people” may be armed to form a militia when government does not listen. I see “the people” have the right to not be searched frivolously, right to counsel, right not to self incriminate and so forth. Even a hideous felon can take the fifth or have a lawyer. So this is a point where we, the law abiding gun owners have been wrong. If you bought a bump stock two years ago you might actually be a felon today. Instant criminal by the stroke of a pen. Remember every founding father that signed WAS a criminal guilty of treason to the crown. Somehow I don’t think they held some mental reservation against “criminals” when they wrote the list of rights.
Our criminal justice system is now a legal procedures system. Case in point. A 44 year old man, convicted of murder when he was 14 was released from prison. An advocate group found evidence of his innocence. Another man was found guilty. This 14 year old boy had a one day trial. The DA had police evidence of his innocence. His public defender just wanted a quick negotiated plea, 40 years to life. And the judge went along with the whole thing as business as usual. Next case.
So this man has no education. Has no family. Spent most of his life in prison. Now that he seeks redress the state of New York has a law limiting their liability in such cases to be million dollars. What IS that man’s life worth? More than a million to begin to make things right. Somehow justice must reinter our courts and police.
Philosophical fox out.
@@MrJento I am glad Mike stands his ground and I agree with him as I also agree with you I was in law enforcement for 20 years before I retired and I have seen some criminals that are just that criminals who feed off the people I don't want them to even have a Sharpe stick but I have met many more who just made a mistake and should have the right to defend themselves I found it so strange that in NC a person convicted of a felony can not have a can of oc spray to me that is a stupid law yes the criminal justice system needs to be redone and made fair people should always have the right to self defence even the ones who disagree with Mike have done something in their life they just did not get caught
I appreciate that you gave the short and sweet upfront and then went into the details.
Mike, this was a very well thought out and informative video. It's obvious that you put a lot of time, consideration and wealth of experience into this.
I fall into that first category and a little bit of the 2nd category. I am a legal gun owner. I am a retired Police Officer and do own regular firearms. But I have a very impressive collection of percussion revolvers and some antique cartridge revolvers.
I like black powder, the smell, the big clouds of white smoke. Loading with black powder and shooting these revolvers from the old west is so much fun. When I shoot guns from the 19th century I like to play like I am actually living in the 19th century, and carrying a percussion revolver is just plain fun and it's cool because I can.
It should be noted, I am very proficient with these not as reliable percussion revolvers but I feel comfortable carrying them for EDC.
I love your CZcams channel. Tha ks Mike for very informative videos.
I also enjoy BP and love the feeling it gives. I have a bunch of cap and ball guns though some need a little maintenance, but I also have a neat collection of flintlock and matchlock guns. It's really fun loading a matchlock musket that almost as tall as you, tending the match then letting that .64 caliber ball fly. It's like physical history.
Very comprehensive explanation of a complex subject. Very much agree that you have to dig into the details of State and local laws to see the legality of using "antique" guns for self defense. I looked at the California laws, and there is a distinction between possessing a percussion gun loaded vs. unloaded. A loaded gun is considered a firearm, and the whole body of firearms restrictions will apply. A crappy DA might use this to turn a self defense into a homicide.
Being a former blue costume wearing gun grabber and suckling at the teats of the taxpayers for the rest of your life is not something anyone should be proud of.
Every State is very different , often with different definitions established in different statutes , often seemingly contradictory , and no generalizations can or should be made .
Very interesting when a person with an LEO background with your training and experience feels completely confident with yesterday's technology! Your perspective is much appreciated.
Thank you . A bullet is 5 yrs . Each federal. But , your commonsense, humanity and honesty , are worthy of respect.
What a great video! You covered every angle. Keep up the good work.
Easily the best video I have ever seen on this topic and I have studying this for years. Thank you for your service.
Thanks as always Mike. I'm a truck driver and be it legal or not I've always carried a gun with me. I used to run long haul and was always nervous about being in states like California or New York. My biggest fear was being assigned a load out of a military base, and that happened one time at a base in Kentucky. This was after the Fort Hood deal took place, and even soldiers couldn't carry guns on base. When I arrived there was a sign at the front of the drive that said no firearms beyond this point. Then another sign just like it at the guard station. What was I supposed to do throw it in the ditch out on the road? Although my pistol was disassembled and very well hidden, this scared the hell out of me. I was on base for about 2 hours and I was sweating every damn minute of it. But the whole point of telling this is that it is extremely dangerous for truck drivers in many parts of the country and I feel I have a right to protect myself no matter what the laws say. I've been in some very uncomfortableness places and I was always glad I was armed. I have a ccw permit for the state I live in, so no worries there, and I don't do long haul anymore so I'm pretty comfortable carrying in my region. The world is more dangerous every day and I'm going to be armed whether anyone likes it or not. I still maintain however, that I'm much more afraid of our corrupt legal system than I am of an attacker. That's the part that really frightens me, and it pisses me off that I should have to feel that way. I avoid dangerous places and people at all costs and that's really the best defense I have
I feel this, I’ve always felt this way for truckers. It’s not fair to you, to all truckers, we should have a blanket federal rule like oh idk the 2nd amendment of the Constitution being the highest law in the land which would cover your right to keep and bear arms for self defense.
To be honest, many states will allow you to get an outer state concealed, carry license in their state like Minnesota and Florida. And if you get a concealed, carry license in 4 or 5 states as a non resident. I think you should be able to carry in most states, including even New York if they have a reciprocity agreement or even California.? Simply look up a state's non resident concealed Carry license and who they have reciprocity agreements with
My thoughts on this subject may offend even the most ardent 2A supporter, in my opinion, any convict who successfully completes their sentence (prison time, probation, parole, supervised release, fines and restitution) should immediately have all civil rights returned, if the prosecution, local State or Federal, still believes that a convict is too dangerous to have a firearm they should then at the end of the sentence be required to take the ex-convict to court to prove that they have not been rehabilitated and sue to have their 2A rights suspended, if the prosecution is successful, after a predetermined time (ie 4-5 years) this process should have to be repeated to prove that the ex-convict is still demonstrating that they have not been rehabilitated. This should be repeated until either the prosecution can no longer prove that the ex-convict is not rehabilitated or until the ex-convict is dead.
Shall not be infringed.
I may not like a murderer but if he wasn't killed by the state as soon as he's out he should be able to buy firearms again.
I absolutely agree. Too much freedom is always better than not enough of it
Agreed
@@MicahRibbentrop I know my comment was long, so thank you for taking time to read it.
@@col.mustard1233 no problem 😊
33 mins into this awesome tutorial, delivered in such a relaxed manner, was exactly what satisfied my curiosities!
Beginning with the end was thoughtful for sure.
I must subscribe... and thank you!
Mike, you hit the nail on the head with this one. Love you channel. I learn so much from your videos
Beautifully said and perfectly addressed 👍, it’s our god given Right to defend ourselves
Amen
There is also more than one kind of criminal.
There are the social parasites who pray on others.
There are those who through no fault of there own, were charged with a felony they could not fight.
There are many unjust laws on the books. There is the upright citizen who is ethical and there is the law abiding citizen, who is obedient.
A wealth of knowledge , thank you very much Sir , well worth listening to full length
I was looking at a lot of these iver johnson and harrington and richardson top-break DA revolvers on Gunbroker about 4 years ago and there were a surprising amount of them that were in good shape. I was looking at them for many of the reasons you listed. I am not a felon, but I had gone through things like the 2 week waiting period in CA for handguns. And the background checks here in the midwest, and the added expense of paying an extra 50 to 90 dollars on the item going through two FFL guys. Watching you shoot them was pretty good. I didn't know they functioned so well, thanks.
The only handgun my great-grandfather ever owned was a nickel plated, S&W break top DA/SA revolver patented in 1898 and chambered in .38S&W. He purchased that revolver the year my grandfather was born, in 1898. My younger brother, of 1959 vintage, inherited that revolver from our mother's estate and shoots it from time to time just for grins and chuckles.
You, my friend are a true straight shooter both in firearm use, knowledge and attitude.
You're an honest man and I sincerely appreciate that. Thank you for this video.
Mike, thank you for this information on these handgun styles and all information. I've joined this class of firearms. Much appreciated.
Even if the guns may be legal to own as pre-1899 antiques, anyone with a firearms prohibition will also be prohibited from possessing ammunition under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). The guns may be antique, but since there are many post-1899 guns that shoot 32 S&W long and 38 S&W can be shot in post-1899, these are considered modern ammo.
If you are a prohibited person and you use a pre-1899 cartridge revolver in a self defense shooting, even if you get exonerated for the self defense shooting, expect to get charged under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) for possession of the ammunition
Better than being dead
@Biggus Blaccus Carrying spare cylinders can be dangerous, if you drop them percussion cap first on the pavement, well that can be pretty bad. And cylinder swaps can be finnicky, I own a Pietta New Model Army and swapping cylinders can be tricky. First you gotta put it on half cock, than insert the cylinder from the right side of the frame whilst turning it clockwise. The cylinder retainer pin can easily get in the way and not to mention when you fired some shots the entire action can get all gunky. Not really all that practical. And sure it can be done, but in a stressful situation I don't imagine that going too smoothly if you even manage to do it.
@Biggus Blaccus reasons like this is why carriers of the New Model Army in the 19th century never really bothered to carry spare cylinders.
@Biggus Blaccus I say you're better off carrying 2 Colt 1851 Navys. Once one's empty bust out the other. Just like they did in Ye Old West.
Correct. Mind-blowing how many people don’t know this. I dislike Mike’s video here so much- bad advice to prohibited persons, and makes it look as though the 2A community is trying their best to arm criminals. Like I said, it’s funny if Mike thinks that him being targeted by the government over the shooting range on his land is random.. it’s because of this video right here. Maybe don’t make videos encouraging convicted felons to acquire weapons, if you’d like to stay on the right side of law enforcement and the government? Just a thought
I fall squarely into that class of viewer who wants the detailed presentation. The facts, context, history, explanation, and pholosophy in your videos are all welcome and much appreciated. Thank you.
Mike, I really appreciate you sticking your opinion out there for people to scrutinize or stand behind. It is becoming increasingly harder to do and I just love your matter of fact approach. I would stand behind, beside, or in front of you Sir. Keep up the great work.
You sir are a patriot and a true American I work with a lot of felons and i tell them all the time sometimes is better then nothing and 99% are terrified to own any gun so videos like this is so helpful for them there not bad people there just people how made a mistake and most of them will probably never do anything rough again.
Thanks for the great video, Mike! This was a well thought out and logical presentation. I cannot argue with any of your statements wrt self defense and, especially, that self defense is a basic human right. I feel that any "law" that restricts an individual's ability to defend his/her life is immoral. I also feel that an immoral law should not be allowed to exist nor be enforced.
I agree % 100 mike., thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and advice and making all of the videos.😊
This is SUCH a good video Mr Bellevue! I watched til the end - I guess I’m the type of person who wants ALL the details ! Thanks
Very good Mike , I appreciate your thoughts on self defense
A very interesting perspective on today's personal defenses. Well done and very useful...thanks!
I totally agree with all the thoughts you expressed, and you gun excellent advice. Thank you, Mike!
Great video. I whole heartedly agree with you. People should be able to defend their selves without worry. Keep up the good work.
Fair, honest and not hyper judgmental. Thankyou for being mature and well balanced!
Thank you. Very informative. You are absolutely correct, the true criminal will not be worried about the legality of their firearm.
On the contrary, the convicted felon
who has done his time and paid the price simply wants the ability to protect himself and his family legally.
I commend your wisdom and honesty.
I agree with you that just because someone made a mistake at some time in their life doesn't mean they don't have a right to self defense, thank you for pointing that out
This is probably one of your most important videos for so very many people.
Options 4 & 5 being…
•Shoot, Scoot & stay Mute🤫
•Shoot, Shovel & Shut Up🤐
😂
All your reasoning is well thought out and correct thank you .
Thanks Mike this video was very informative, and I have enjoyed all of your videos especially about cap and ball revolvers
That's one of the best videos you've ever done Mike. Nice work.
Agreed
I retired from law enforcement and I do believe we need to adjust the law I don't think non violent felons or people with one felony charge should be denied a firearm to protect themselves or for hunting
They arent, they can apply for their civil rights to be restored, it's not hard or expensive. They just need to keep their nose clean for 5 or 10 years depending on their crime
@@jordanhicks5131 alot can happen to a person in 5 or 10 years. Especially considering how vulnerable and marginalized prison inmates are when first released.
Remember the 2nd amendment is in the bill of rights, a document stating inalienable rights of every person, not privileges that can can removed because you were found guilty of a crime, or because you upset the wrong organizations. You shouldn't have to live as slave after having served your time.
@@grizzlyblackpowder1960 having actually done what I'm talking about, that's a horseshit excuse. Man up and take responsibility, it's not hard to keep your nose clean. If you've truly reformed your ways it isnt hard at least.
No need to change the law, your parasitic pig pals could simply just stop enforcing it. Without the leeches of LE to enforce politicians edicts upon the public at the point of pistol in exchange for taxpayer funded paychecks and pensions, every single anti-gun law ever written is nothing more than a harmless suggestion. Learn to put the blame where it properly belongs, on those wearing boots, not suits.
@@jordanhicks5131 just because you messed your life up doesn't mean you know the lives of others, and it certainly doesn't change the words used in the constitution. Personally I think the way we punish criminals is a grievous miscarriage, and steps should be taken to change how it is handled.
Though as a person who has never been on the wrong side of the law, and instead spent my time fighting in a shitty bomb filled desert, my beliefs in punishment would likely not be chosen by most convicts.
I remember when you can by a H&R or Iver Johnson for $40.00 in the 60's and 70's I've own a dozen or more. My mom carried a S&W lemon squeezing in 38 S&W all her adult life. I agree everyone has a right to self defense. In some states they've regulated that right away even requiring you to retreat in your own home. My deep red state has constitutional carry and open carry. If you had to defend yourself with deadly force getting arrested for it here would be almost impossible. Great video Mike.
By any chance do you know anyone that has one for sale?
What an awesome video!😃👍 Learned a lot.
I fall into the category of those who try to avoid being on lists. I have a small collection of modern guns that I enjoy target shooting on a fairly regular basis. I like the idea of having a gun or two that are not illegal (stolen etc.) but not known of by the government. These antique revolvers offer a fair alternative. .38 S&W ammo is pretty anemic by modern standards but lots of bad guys were effectively stopped by police with these guns.
You're already on a list just for posting in this video thread, in fact, just for watching this video at all. So it's moot.
Just want to say that I enjoy these longer form videos. As usual informative and interesting content. Thanks for posting.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.
@@duelist1954 please i have a question : to what types of revolvers your Smith&Wessons in 38sw AND 44-40 are similar ? It's impossible to find holsters molded for them since they're so ancient...
I am very heartened to hear your view and agree with you there was a smith and Wesson safety revolver in .38 also that I particularly liked thank you for your video
I own that Iver Johnson in .38 which I purchased 25 years ago in a pawn shop in Georgia. Still shoots well and while it is not my carry choice often I do love it.
Great video as always,very informative and to the point.I live in South Carolina,if you are going to carry a cap and ball firearm it is treated as a normal gun in a self defensive situation.
For a long time I refused to buy a modern firearm. I always believed black powder is all I need. But, I changed over the years and now have single action revolvers with metalic cartridges.🤠👍
Keep the cap and ball guns though, if all ammo is restricted, banned, or not available for any reason in a shtf situation, you can supply yourself with all you need to keep shooting for the rest of your life. And your children's lives after that..
So where did you find a time machine to come here from 1880?
@@dchil15 I wish I could find it so I can go back.
@@losonsrenoster I always wanted to make my own black powder. I wont need to worry about ammo shortages anymore.
@@richdoherty64 careful, it is illegal some places, check your laws regarding the subject. It is not difficult or expensive though.
Thanks for the interesting video, and a huge thanks for not ruining it with crappy background music.
I don't know why some people are compelled to add annoying background music throughout their videos.
Very informative video. My first handgun was a H&R .22 lr top open revolver. I've had it for 50 years and I love the way it works as far as loading and unloading. I have, on occasion, wondered about the design and larger caliber. I know H&R made them in .32. Didn't know they made a .38. I realize that what you showed, was vintage black powder and not modern. But anyway......very good video. Thank you sir..
Mike, you’re right… when someone has been reloading for as long as we have, reloading doesn’t seem like rocket science. We sometimes forget that when there is ignition, a propellant, a projectile and trajectory… that’s rocket science. Here’s to you, rocket scientist, keep on doing what you do. Thanks.
Gave my daughter a .32 Premier, don't recall if it was an IJ or H&R ,but it was nickle plated and in pristine condition . Fast forward 10 yrs. Later we were talking about it and she brought it out ..... They had found a box of ammo at a flea market , took it home and fired several rounds out of it . The rounds were black powder loads and she just put it back in the case without cleaning it . Should have given her a High-Point !
H&R made the Premier revolvers. I have one in .22.
Should have given her a cleaning kit.
Thank you! I have always enjoyed your show. Keep up the good work..
Mike thank you, very thoughtful advice.
I agree with most of it. At the age of 19,in the early 1980's,I was shot by an idiot outside of a nightclub. I've carried a weapon of one kind or another ever since. I learned the hard way,the importance of the ability to shoot back. Great subject,and video..... Thanks!
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it, and I'm glad you survived your "lesson".
Great video, Mike! I recently got a chance to shoot a Merwin-Hulbert Pocket Army in .44-40 with the 3” barrel and it was fantastic! I’d love to have it.
They are great. I have one with the 7" barrel, and I'd love to pick up a three-inch barrel for it.
Excellent presentation. Totally agree. Thank you. You are a gift.
Very informative and specific, great job sir!! Thank you
You sir are one of the most intelligent person I've heard talk in a long time. I'm one of those felons that is just living life. I was a dumb kid. I'm almost fifty now and have been carrying Remington 1858 and a Ruger old army everyday for self defense for many years. I did not know I could carry a antique cartridge revolver.? I'm a Texan, so my laws are really relaxed.
Yes, Sir, I agree. Could you give me more info on these "Relaxed Laws in Texas", please? I am getting ready to move there as my wife job is sending her to there one of it's locations in Texas where she is an I.T. /software developer.
I must fall into the modern, historical category because "2 World Wars!". But I digress. A connection to our past and the handguns of the 1800s that our forefathers carried, will always be appealing to me.
Excellent video thanks I learned a lot.
I really enjoyed it. I enjoy your content and views.
Thank you, Mike. I fall into categories 1 and 2, and agree with your reasoning on category 3. I'm really concerned with having being put on a list. I live in California and like Disney; the dream has died. You have good content sir. Wishing you and yours, a very happy and blessed Easter. 🇺🇸
Such a beautiful state ruined by idiots
I have owned several .38 S&W 5 shot top break, they are quite comforting to carry.
( Albeit a later 20th Century production ) S&W .38 Breaktop is a viable weapon . I would ( & have) carried in preference to a subcompact .380 that is currently all the rage . Better practical accuracy , and at least equal to fmj. in a .380 . ( The first time I. fired it , went 5 for 5 on 6 inch steel plates @ 17 yds , try that with a subcompact .380 ! )
Thank you for the info. On the speed loaders. I asked about that on a previous Video.
Post 1: When my Mom was young, right out of high school (1955,) she worked at the Iver Johnson Bicycle Works in Fitchburg (she made gears.) They existed mostly on manufacturing products for other companies at that time before relocating to New Jersey, she had already moved on to nursing. She had fond memories of working there as many of the women that stayed were all graduates of the same Catholic school in Southern Massachusetts. By 1963 we had moved to Arizona where the other side of the family had settled in the 1850’s.
50 years and a stint in the Marine Corps later, I was the manager of a Gun-shop in Tucson Arizona and a gentleman came in with a drawer full of “Junk” guns. I purchased a U. S. Revolver Company five shot fixed frame .38 S&W and a fixed frame .32 S&W Iver Johnson revolver which had the Fitchburg address on it, I paid $100 for the pair. I bought the .32 (which was in superb condition although had no finish) for my Mom and took it into a Mexican bumper plating shop and they offered to Chrome or Gold plate it for $50. I decided Gold might be a nice touch and they did an outstanding job on it!
My Mom got it for Christmas and was very pleased that it said Iver Johnson with the address she used to work at for many years. She enjoyed shooting it as the little .32 S&W cartridge was low recoiling but the cost and availability of the ammunition left her cold. Her apartment was broken into and she lost the little Iver Johnson before having owned it into the second year!
I eventually found a snub nosed Iver Johnson Cadet 5 shot fixed frame .38 Special (not .38 S&W) at a gun show and purchased that for her and she loved shooting my .38 Special match wad-cutters even more. And all would have been fine until a Gun Show Exhibitor told her that it was an Iver Johnson Cadet that had taken the life of Bobby Kennedy. There was no consoling her, the I. J. Cadet had to go.
Eventually she found a 10 shot .32 Spanish Ruby with French markings to her liking but when Smith & Wesson released the new “Lady Smith” in .38 Special I purchased one for her which she was in love with. Many years later she took a liking to my S&W CS-1 (Model 686) .357 Magnum 3” Round Butt Stainless revolver (with Ivorex grips) and we were both finally at peace with her choice, loading it with full house Glaser Safety Slugs and practicing with the afore mentioned match .38 special wad-cutters...
Hehehe = quite a Mom you have...!
great video, love all of the information. Very helpful. Thank You.
Your take on people who paid their time and are trying to live a lawful life vs. actual criminals is exactly why I think this kind of advise should be available.
Local laws in my country make guns (and 100% of carry permits) a privilege for people with money and/or influence yet criminals who don't care about law have all the toys they want, meanwhile those who are below middle class or aren't able to do the ridiculous (and sometimes impossible) amount of paperwork required are left to Mace and slingshots.
Ironically crime rate grew exponentially since guns got banned a few decades ago (before the ban gun laws were more lax than in the US).
I've had an interest in cap and ball and antiques for many reasons but I also own many modern guns. I can tell you 90% of guns used by criminals are stolen. I've loved your channel already but now that I know how much I agree with your point of views I love this channel even more.
Thanks!
@@duelist1954 please i have a question : to what types of revolvers your Smith&Wessons in 38sw AND 44-40 are similar ? It's impossible to find holsters molded for them since they're so ancient...
TY for the FFL clarification on these. Im a Black powder shooter and knew cap and ball wasnt listed as firearm but didnt know the early cased round revolvers shared that.
Congrats for starting out strong. More people should start that way. Very good info.
Absolutely enjoyed it mike. It’s crazy but you got me into bp about 7-8 years ago and I’m just sorta rediscovering your work and I’m so proud of you getting up around 100k subs! Way to stick with it brother I’ll be watching !
Thanks!
Gun laws in Australia mean my firearms are locked up in a safe and even when travelling to the range the ammunition is seperate from the firearm so in an emergency case they are not available to be used in a hurry so I don’t consider them to be available as a self defence option but as you say, instinct tells you to fight or flight, and I would use whatever was available to defend myself and my loved ones.
Australia is the model for which American gun owners should strive to "PREVENT" i remember when the semi auto ban happened & watching guns being cut in half with those big abrasive disc saws,,, I even saw an elderly lady turn in a beautiful H&H double rifle & watched it being cut in half on tv!! almost made me cry!! The authorities would destroy anything/everything turned in far as i could see (on american news early 80's)
As always. Excellent and very instructive
Excellent presentation, sir!
Due to licencing difficulties, - uncertainties and - delays in my part of the world, it is simply a lot easier and quicker to arm yourself with cap and ball, I have a Piëtta .44 1851 Colt Navy (sheriff model) and a Piëtta .44 1859 Remington new army replicas, also the shorter barrelled sheriff model. In my country we are not allowed more than one licenced handgun, which motivates having a few cap and ball guns around quite well. Apart from that, when ammo is restricted or not available for any reason in a shtf situation, I can supply myself with all I need to keep shooting indefinitely. These are also guns I can leave to my kids,mwho might not be lucky to get any other guns at all.
You make some good points about diversity in type of firearm ownership. A problem we had here in the U.S. much of last year (seems to be somewhat less this year) was that during our ammo shortage there was also a severe shortage of caps for cap & ball revolvers. Seems that many of the firms that actually manufacture these caps also manufacture primers for cartridge ammo and their production capability were at at capacity making primers.
Luckily, I own more flintlocks than percussion or modern firearms. 😂😂😂
I was able to acquire kits to manufacture my own supplies for my cap and ball firearms during this latest shortage. And while I haven't had to resort to doing it, it is nice to know I could shoot 100% homemade if pressed to do so. When supplies started going out of stock and prices were going up. The caps and powder were available and at normal prices for a few months longer than primers and smokeless, I took note and stocked up. Most of my recreational shooting lately has been BP for that reason, leaving my centerfire stock available for hunting and defensive purposes.
@@ROE1300 and on about diversity of firearms laws, here in England even a sane mild mannered never been arrested standard civilian basically has no chance of ever legally owning any type of firearms..☹️☹️😭😭
But that dictatorship UK/GB/England for you..😓
@@matthewhall7976 That's not true at all. Most rifles (except c/f semi-autos and pump actions), shotguns, muzzle-loading pistols, and various other "stuff" is available in the UK. All of that requires paperwork and some hoops to jump through but it's not hugely expensive or insurmountable, especially when compared with the laws in various other countries --- and even compared with some US jurisdictions. What you basically can't legally get on the UK mainland is breech-loading pistols under 24" overall length, a semi-auto centre-fire rifle, a full-auto anything, to carry for self defence, or to give "self defence" as a reason for getting your certificate. (That's not to say it's illegal to use one you have for other purposes for self defence. Very clear in law.)
To claim that the UK completely bans guns for ordinary serfs, or even that it's a dictatorship, is ridiculous hyperbole. Is the law non-ideal? For me yes, but I for one aren't going to exaggerate the current situation to try and get internet sympathy points.
Which country other than the US allows for cap and ball without a license
Really good vid. I carried a cap and ball b4 I could legally carry. Practiced alot and got competent. Tuned the pistol and it was very reliable. You are right about habitual criminals not caring about laws. You are a real asset to the shooting community. I'm with you as far as the right of all to defend themselves. Easy to become a felon with so many 1000s of laws.
Especially assaulting someone in self defense fkn sucks cant even fight nowadays without getting charged with a felony
Excellent video Mike, Thank you
Outstanding. Thanks. Have shared with some good folk who have past mistakes that gov has deemed they should not be able to defend themselves.
Thanks for your thoughtful comments and insight. After watching your channel, I have started loading BP in 45Colt for fun. I doubt that the bad guy target would notice the difference between smokless 45colt and a full load of BP in the 45colt.
One additional advantage is that 35 grains of FFG will set the perp on fire and make him a lot easier to find!
Those little top break revolver in 32 really neat guns, cheers from France
Thank you for this video. Very informing.
Just found your channel, I am enjoying the content.
Excellent video! In 1960 14yo me bought an Iver Johnston revolver for $3. Over the years l have collected quite a few Ivers and S&W lemon squeezers. It would seem many people are taking your advice because in the last year or so prices have jumped. Parts guns are now costing as much as good guns did 2 years ago. That being said folks should not buy a revolver that does not eject well. The springs are hard to get, somewhat fragile, and pretty costly. 38 S&W calibers caused more deaths in big cities up until the second WW than any other caliber, so they shouldn’t be sneezed at for self defense. The Brits used 38 S&W in their victory model S&W revolvers through the second WW . I would agree with you that 32 cal S&W is not a good choice. The Iver Johnson’s were the working mans guns and for their time well built and as effective as a Colt police Positive of the same era.