Wheelgun Wednesday: Janz Revolvers – When 'Bespoke' and 'Modular' Come Together
What would you do if a business partner suddenly went bankrupt, and you were left with a large pile of bills. The correct answer is, of course: Fine, then I’ll do it myself! And that’s how Janz Präzisionstechnik came to its weapons division.
More from IWA 2022 @ TFB:
- [IWA 2022] NEW Steyr AUG A3 SWAT: Coming to the USA?
- [IWA 2022] The Detonics Gladiator 50 Caliber Black Powder Derringer
- [IWA 2022] Tanfoglio’s Brand New Stock III Pro Competition Handgun
- [IWA 2022] The Spuhr Ideal Chassis System for Remington and Tikka
- [IWA 2022] One Fine CZ-75: The NEW Tanfoglio Stock III Pro Pistol
- [IWA 2022] THE TURKISH MASTERKEY: Akdas Budget Underbarrel Shotgun
Originally it was a supplier to the well-known revolver manufacturer Korth, but when they filed for insolvency a few years ago, Janz decided to try this business themselves with the acquired knowledge and the individual parts still in stock. After a few initial models, first in .44 caliber, then in .357, they found their calling: a changeable caliber system for revolvers.
Janz moves right on the border between production and custom work. While there are some basic types and shapes, they can be revised, specialized, and customized based on the buyer’s needs. For example, there are three basic frame sizes that cover almost all common calibers; from .22LR to .500S&W. Nevertheless, exotic rounds would also be possible, as an extra. The same goes for the barrel. The standard is 6″, but it always depends on the customer. In one special case, even a 16″ barrel was made. The revolvers’ triggers are SA/DA and can be modified on request or readjusted by the shooters themselves.
From the factory, you can get the cylinder and barrel either solid or with relief cuts; as well as a wide range of different sights. It is also possible to install a reflex or red dot sight, but these must be purchased from an external source. And the mass of options doesn’t stop at the surface, of course. Chrome, various furnishings, plasma hardening all the way to gold plating and hand engraving have been applied to models.
But what really sets these revolvers apart from their top-priced competitors and makes them really modular is the caliber change system. It is possible to detach the cylinder and barrel from the frame and replace it with a new caliber. While the process requires a specific tool, which is shipped with the gun, it is not difficult and can be done in mere seconds.
This is not only an impressive feat of engineering but also a benefit to anyone dealing with less fortunate gun laws. Because the frame stays the same, the system only counts as a single weapon. Good if the number of guns you can own is limited.
The only downside is, that these options are reflected in the price. A basic revolver costs €5,850 ($6,348) and each interchangeable caliber – €1500 (£1,600). However, you also get a beautifully made revolver with innovative technology. Find out more at janzrevolver.com
Alexander Straube is a German freelance writer, chief editor of FIPS and author of the book on the German gun debate.
This article was written by a Guest Author. The views contained in this article reflect that of the author and not necessarily that of The Firearm Blog or TFBTV.
More by Guest Post
Comments
Join the conversation
Needs a video demonstrating how easily the cylinder and barrel can be changed.
The closest thing to a Ratzeburg Korth you can get these days. Except the maker isn’t too keen on finishing his projects, and tends to miss out on the final details. As witness thinking that an aluminum case with a fuzzy polyester cushion is the right vessel for his finest handiwork.
Compare a 1989, post-Willian Ratzeburg Korth.
https://uploads.disquscdn.c...