The 1851 Navy Colt revolver, a true icon of the American Old West, wasn't initially designed for metallic cartridges. Its original configuration relied on the percussion cap and loose powder/ball system. However, the rapid advancements in firearms technology led to the development of the metallic cartridge, and Colt, ever the innovator, adapted their popular revolver to accommodate this new ammunition. This article delves into the fascinating history and mechanics of the 1851 Navy cartridge conversion.
The Rise of the Metallic Cartridge and its Impact on the 1851 Navy
Before the mid-1800s, revolvers like the 1851 Navy were loaded individually, a slow and cumbersome process. Each cylinder had to be loaded with black powder, a ball, and a percussion cap. This method was prone to misfires, slow reloading, and inconsistent accuracy. The introduction of metallic cartridges revolutionized firearms. These self-contained units combined powder, primer, and projectile into a single package, dramatically improving speed and reliability.
Advantages of the Cartridge Conversion
The conversion of the 1851 Navy to fire metallic cartridges offered several significant advantages:
- Faster Reloading: The most obvious benefit was the significantly faster reload times. Instead of individually loading each cylinder, cartridges could be rapidly inserted.
- Increased Reliability: Metallic cartridges provided a more reliable ignition, minimizing misfires and improving overall accuracy.
- Improved Accuracy: The consistent powder charge in each cartridge resulted in more uniform bullet velocities, leading to improved accuracy.
- Reduced Fouling: Cartridge use produced less fouling in the barrel, leading to less cleaning and maintenance.
The Mechanics of the 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion
The conversion wasn't a simple swap; it required modifications to the revolver's cylinder and sometimes the loading lever. Several different approaches were employed:
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Conversion Cylinders: The most common method involved replacing the original percussion cylinder with a new cylinder specifically designed to accommodate cartridges. These conversion cylinders usually featured slightly larger chambers to accommodate the cartridge's length and diameter.
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Loading Lever Modifications: Some conversions also included modifications to the loading lever to improve the ease of inserting cartridges into the cylinder.
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Variations in Cartridge Type: The .36 caliber cartridge was the most commonly used in converted 1851 Navys. However, various manufacturers produced cartridges in slightly different dimensions, leading to some variations in the required conversion. This is an important consideration for collectors and enthusiasts today.
Case Study: A Specific Conversion Example
Let's consider a hypothetical example: a Colt 1851 Navy converted by a well-known gunsmith of the era. This gunsmith might have replaced the original cylinder with a custom-made one, slightly enlarging the chambers to fit .36 caliber cartridges. The gunsmith might also have carefully filed down parts of the loading lever for easier cartridge insertion. This kind of detailed work showcases the level of craftsmanship involved in these conversions.
Identifying a Converted 1851 Navy
Distinguishing an original percussion 1851 Navy from a converted one requires careful examination. Key features to look for include:
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Cylinder: The cylinder of a converted revolver will often show signs of alteration. The chambers may be slightly larger than those of a standard percussion cylinder. Look for evidence of modification, such as filing marks or tool marks.
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Loading Lever: The loading lever may show signs of modification to facilitate cartridge loading.
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Markings: Some converted revolvers may bear markings indicating the converter or the type of cartridge they were designed for. However, this is not always the case.
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Cartridge Cases: Finding original cartridge cases within the gun or accompanying the gun can be strong evidence of conversion.
The Legacy of the 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion
The conversion of the 1851 Navy to fire metallic cartridges represents a pivotal moment in firearms history. It demonstrated the adaptability of a classic design and paved the way for future advancements in revolver technology. The converted 1851 Navy continued to see service long after the introduction of more modern firearms, underscoring its enduring popularity and practicality. Today, these converted revolvers are highly sought-after by collectors, demonstrating the enduring legacy of this iconic firearm.
Conclusion: Appreciating the Adaptability of a Legend
The 1851 Navy cartridge conversion showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of both the original Colt design and the gunsmiths who modified it. By understanding the mechanics and history of this conversion, we gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of firearms technology and the enduring legacy of one of the most recognizable revolvers in history. The 1851 Navy, in its various forms, remains a testament to the ever-evolving nature of firearms technology and a symbol of a bygone era.