One of the most popular of Civil War pistols was the Colt Model 1860 Army Revolver in 44 caliber. In the eyes of many, this is the gun with graceful and unbeatable looks.

Around 200,000 were made by Colt between 1860 and 1873. Nearly all were made during the War. It had a six shot cylinder and a 7½" or (more common) an 8" barrel. The standard cylinder featured an engraved scene of a naval battle.   The Army designation meant it was 44 caliber. 36 Caliber were known as Navy, but both terms are merely convenient marketing designations.

It was loaded with loose blackpowder and a bare bullet referred to as "cap and ball," or with paper cartridges. Loading a cap and ball revolver is from the front of the cylinder. Misfires in cap and ball revolvers were more common than in the subsequent metallic cartridge guns.

Colt's first effort to convert this revolver to metallic cartridges was in 1869. The design by Thuer was disappointing. The Richards conversion of 1873 was both successful and used a more modern looking cartridge.

The 44 Colt is available in several brand names as a modern made replica.  The cartridge conversion model became available a few years ago because of a growing interest in Cowboy Action Shooting, but the cartridge version must be purchased through a dealer in your state with an Federal Firearms License (FFL).

For more information, consult "Flayderman's Guide To Antique American Firearms" by Norm Flayderman, or "Colt Conversions" by R. Bruce McDowell.