So I bought a Webley Mark VI revolver online about six months ago. When it came in, I function tested it and found no problems. I finally located some 455 Webley loaded ammunition and took the revolver to the range. Four of the cylinders would fire consistently, one would fire occasionally, and one would not fire at all. All six cylinders had strong primer strikes. Occasionally there would be some excessive blowback during firing.
The problem appeared to be excessive head spacing, but I think that's pretty uncommon in a revolver. After doing some internet searching, I found the problem. The cylinder has been shaved to accept 45 ACP. Witness the shortened cylinder by viewing the serial number on the cylinder--part of it is not there. Also, the face of the cylinder is bright and shiny, and there are no proof marks on it. And also, I could insert a nickel between the back of the cylinder and the frame.
I have some moon clips from a Colt 1917 then I'll give a try, but I'll make sure to use a very light load with a 200 grain lead bullets in the 45 ACP cases.
I'll also keep an eye out for a cylinder insert to enable me to shoot the 455 Webley ammunition that I have, and also look for a spare Mark Vi cylinder.
The problem appeared to be excessive head spacing, but I think that's pretty uncommon in a revolver. After doing some internet searching, I found the problem. The cylinder has been shaved to accept 45 ACP. Witness the shortened cylinder by viewing the serial number on the cylinder--part of it is not there. Also, the face of the cylinder is bright and shiny, and there are no proof marks on it. And also, I could insert a nickel between the back of the cylinder and the frame.
I have some moon clips from a Colt 1917 then I'll give a try, but I'll make sure to use a very light load with a 200 grain lead bullets in the 45 ACP cases.
I'll also keep an eye out for a cylinder insert to enable me to shoot the 455 Webley ammunition that I have, and also look for a spare Mark Vi cylinder.