What are the components of a revolver's cylinder assembly?

The cylinder assembly of a revolver consists of several interrelated parts that work together to enable the firearm to function effectively. The correct choice includes the cylinder, extractor, extractor rod, ratchet, and crane.

The cylinder is the part that holds the cartridges in their chambers and rotates to align each chamber with the barrel for firing. The extractor is a crucial mechanism for removing spent cartridges from the chambers after firing, ensuring that the revolver can be reloaded efficiently. The extractor rod is what facilitates this extraction process; it usually runs through the center of the extractor and allows the shooter to push out empty casings when the cylinder is open.

The ratchet is responsible for ensuring the cylinder rotates correctly with each pull of the trigger, engaging with the hammer or frame to advance the cylinder to the next round. Lastly, the crane is the hinge mechanism that allows the cylinder to swing out for loading and unloading, connecting the cylinder assembly to the frame of the revolver.

This combination of components is essential for the revolver's operation, making it vital for anyone working with firearms, particularly in law enforcement, to understand the functionality and importance of each part within the cylinder assembly.