High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! A revolver is a repeating firearm that has a cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing. The first revolver (flintlock revolver) ever made was built by Elisha Collier in 1818. The percussion cap revolver was invented by Samuel Colt in 1836. This weapon became known as the Colt Paterson. The first cartridge revolvers finally were Smith and Wessons and were produced around 1856.