The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - DixieGunworks 1860 kit

DustyBottoms · April 15, 2010, 03:43 PM

Hi, all.
For some reason I can't explain (not being secretive, I just don't know where this obsession originated) I need a shootin' iron. Specifically, an 1860 Army.

I'm no stranger to firearms - grew up with them - but I've never owned a percussion pistol before. Never even fired one. I know - what's wrong with me?

I've got my eye on the kit at Dixie Gunworks.
I think I want to go with the kit because A: it won't break the bank, and B: I get to build it myself, which is always fun, and I can finish it exactly how I want it.

My question to you guys is mainly about the steel frame.
Judging by the picture, which is tiny, it looks like it could be just raw steel.
Has anybody here ever built or even seen one of these kits?
Is it just raw steel? Is it case-hardened? Plated? Or will I end up having to shell out more money to have it hardened or plated?
Or are there other options for protecting a raw steel frame while keeping the shiny silver color?

Aside from the aesthetic issues of the steel frame, any info you guys may have concerning the function, accuracy, and reliability of these kits would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

April 15, 2010, 03:43 PM	#1
DustyBottoms Member Join Date: April 15, 2010 Posts: 65	DixieGunworks 1860 kit - Any good? Hi, all. For some reason I can't explain (not being secretive, I just don't know where this obsession originated) I need a shootin' iron. Specifically, an 1860 Army. I'm no stranger to firearms - grew up with them - but I've never owned a percussion pistol before. Never even fired one. I know - what's wrong with me? I've got my eye on the kit at Dixie Gunworks. I think I want to go with the kit because A: it won't break the bank, and B: I get to build it myself, which is always fun, and I can finish it exactly how I want it. My question to you guys is mainly about the steel frame. Judging by the picture, which is tiny, it looks like it could be just raw steel. Has anybody here ever built or even seen one of these kits? Is it just raw steel? Is it case-hardened? Plated? Or will I end up having to shell out more money to have it hardened or plated? Or are there other options for protecting a raw steel frame while keeping the shiny silver color? Aside from the aesthetic issues of the steel frame, any info you guys may have concerning the function, accuracy, and reliability of these kits would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks.