The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Several Questions about Cap and Ball revolvers

RHarris · September 21, 2002, 07:04 AM

Curiosity and low prices have sparked some interest in Cap and Ball revolvers recently.

There are serveral questions I have for those who might know.

I've seen new brass framed 1851 Navy's as low as $75. Other models aren't too much more. I was wondering what the difference in durability among the different types is. It seems the brass framed 1851 Navy's would be the weakest and the steel framed 1858 Army's would be the toughest. Is this necessarily true? Does it matter for moderate use? Is there any difference between the brass and steel 1858 Army's? What problems occur if there is a weakness issue?

Other than possibly durability, are there any advantages of one type over another?

.36 or .44?

Could Cast .357 bullets (made for cartridges) be used in place of round balls in the .36 models?

Can pyrodex pellets be used with them?

ARE THEY A LOT OF FUN?

September 21, 2002, 07:04 AM	#1
RHarris Senior Member Join Date: June 19, 2000 Posts: 416	Several Questions about Cap and Ball revolvers Curiosity and low prices have sparked some interest in Cap and Ball revolvers recently. There are serveral questions I have for those who might know. I've seen new brass framed 1851 Navy's as low as $75. Other models aren't too much more. I was wondering what the difference in durability among the different types is. It seems the brass framed 1851 Navy's would be the weakest and the steel framed 1858 Army's would be the toughest. Is this necessarily true? Does it matter for moderate use? Is there any difference between the brass and steel 1858 Army's? What problems occur if there is a weakness issue? Other than possibly durability, are there any advantages of one type over another? .36 or .44? Could Cast .357 bullets (made for cartridges) be used in place of round balls in the .36 models? Can pyrodex pellets be used with them? ARE THEY A LOT OF FUN?