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The Webley Mark IV .38 S&W revolver is a British service revolver that was widely used during the mid-20th century, primarily by the British military and law enforcement. It was part of the Webley Mark series of revolvers, which were standard-issue sidearms for British forces over several decades.Here's a detailed breakdown of the Webley Mark IV:1. Design and Development The Webley Mark IV was introduced in 1939, designed as a more modern and simplified version of previous Webley revolvers. It was a direct successor to the Webley Mark VI, which was in service during World War I and World War II. The Mark IV was chambered in .38 S&W, a caliber used by many military and police forces around the world during the time. This revolver was primarily intended for military and police use, designed to be reliable, easy to maintain, and capable of withstanding harsh conditions.2. Chambering and Ammunition The Webley Mark IV is chambered in .38 S&W (not to be confused with the more common .38 Special). The .38 S&W is a relatively low-pressure round, known for its moderate recoil and effectiveness in short-range encounters. The revolver typically holds 6 rounds in its cylinder, which was standard for most service revolvers of the time.3. Construction and Materials The frame of the Webley Mark IV is primarily made from steel, offering durability and a sturdy build. The revolver has a solid and hefty feel, characteristic of older military revolvers. The barrel is relatively short, with a length of about 4 inches (although variations with different barrel lengths exist). The finish is usually a blued steel, which helps protect the revolver from rust and corrosion. Some models were produced with a more durable nickel finish for additional resistance to the elements.4. Action and Mechanism The Webley Mark IV operates with a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism. This means the revolver can be fired in double-action (where the trigger both cocks the hammer and releases it) or single-action (where the hammer must be manually cocked for each shot, offering a lighter and more precise trigger pull). The revolver uses a top-break design, which means the barrel swings upward to expose the cylinder, allowing for easy loading and unloading. This mechanism is quick and efficient for reloading under field conditions. The ejector is manually operated via a rod, which helps eject spent casings from the cylinder.5. Sights The Webley Mark IV typically comes with fixed iron sights, including a front post sight and a rear notch sight. These sights are simple, functional, and adequate for close-range shooting, though they may not be as refined or adjustable as more modern designs.6. Dimensions and Weight Length: The overall length of the revolver is approximately 9.5 inches (240 mm), with some variations in barrel length. Height: About 5.6 inches (143 mm). Weight: The Webley Mark IV weighs around 2.5 pounds (1.14 kg) when unloaded, which gives it a solid, substantial feel in hand but can be somewhat heavy for extended carry.7. Ergonomics The grip of the Webley Mark IV is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in most hands, with a contoured wood or rubber grip that helps absorb recoil. It's well-suited for both right- and left-handed shooters. The revolver's balance is good, with the weight of the steel frame contributing to manageable recoil despite the size and power of the .38 S&W cartridge.8. Reliability and Durability The Webley Mark IV is known for its reliability in harsh conditions. It was designed for military use, meaning it was built to function reliably in the field, regardless of weather or terrain. Its top-break design is an advantage for quick loading and unloading, but it also means the revolver is easier to maintain in the field, with fewer parts that can be prone to malfunction. The action of the revolver is robust, and its simplicity makes it less prone to jams or failures than more complex semi-automatic pistols.9. Uses The Webley Mark IV was primarily issued to the British military during World War II, replacing the older Webley Mark VI in certain roles. It was also used by police forces and civilian authorities, particularly in British colonies and other Commonwealth nations. The revolver served as a standard-issue sidearm for soldiers, police officers, and even some special forces during and after the war, though it was eventually phased out in favor of more modern semi-automatic pistols, like the Browning Hi-Power.10. Aftermarket Support Being a relatively old design, parts and accessories for the Webley Mark IV can be harder to find today, although many replacement parts and service kits are still available through gun dealers and specialized manufacturers. Because of its historical significance and use in British military history, the Webley Mark IV is still of interest to collectors and shooting enthusiasts.In Summary:The Webley Mark IV .38 S&W revolver is a robust, reliable, and historically significant sidearm that served the British military and police forces during and after World War II. Its simple design, solid construction, and ease of use make it a valuable piece for collectors and those interested in vintage military firearms. While it may not have the advanced features of modern pistols, its durability and effective range made it a trusted sidearm during its time in service.
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