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How to Use a Bottleneck Case in a Revolver

The bottleneck cartridge has "a main diameter and a distinct angular shoulder stepping down to a smaller diameter at the neck position of the case" according to the National Forensic Science Technology Center. It enables a firearm to shoot a smaller bullet than normal but with all the gunpowder charge normally used with a larger bullet powering it. Some bottleneck cartridges are well established, such as the .223 Remington and the .17 HMR while others are often designed as experiments by cartridge manufacturers.

Things You'll Need

Eye and ear protection

Instructions

- 1
  Put on hearing and eye protection.
- 2
  Load the revolver with the matching bottleneck cartridges, keeping the firearm pointed downrange. Using cartridges by established manufacturers may prove safer as they have already tested the cartridge for safety and reliability.
- 3
  Raise the revolver to eye height, and while keeping your finger off the trigger bring the target into your sights.
- 4
  Press slowly against the trigger with your index finger. Do not push to the left side or pull to the right but instead bring the trigger directly back.
- 5
  Avoid flinching as the cartridge is fired. Depending upon the cartridge and the individual revolver there may be a greater than normal flash of powder in your face.
- 6
  Open the cylinder after the cartridges have been fired and push them out with the ejector rod. Reload while keeping the revolver pointed downrange and continue shooting.

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