The 1861 Steel Frame Navy .36 caliber revolver was the immediate successor to Colt’s Model 1860. By incorporating many features of the Model 1851, the 1861 was balanced for superior handling. A robust replica, this version sports a color case-hardened frame, an 8", blued barrel, cylinder with engraved naval battle scene and walnut grips. Features a steel blued trigger guard and grip backstrap. Uses a #10 percussion cap. Barrel length: 8". Overall length: 14". Weight: 2 lbs., 11 oz.
This is a real nice piece, has a good comfortable feel and the machining is superb. Just so surprised how well this gun fits together, structurally very solid and sound. This 61's shooting very well and just feels natural in my hand, as others have said, at the range this gun attracts attention. The more I shoot the better I become aquanted with the guns characteristics.
*The #10 csi caps did not fit the nipples well at all and required second strikes for ignition.
***** The #10 REMINGTON caps fit the nipples perfectly and produce excellent results every time.
I would recommend this 61 without any reservations. Definetly a keeper.
I just got my 1861 navy by Pietta last week. I cleaned itup and was impressed with the quality of the firearm.I have other brands of navy revolvers but this one seems better built. I was so impressed that I ordered another from Cabella's and it arrived today. As I was cleaning this one I noticed that the guns have consecutive serial numbers.
I'm going to the range this Saturday to shoot them and if they shoot as weell as they feel in my hand, I will be shooting them in Cowboy Action Matches next month.
Very pleased with this revolver,well balanced, very accurate....my friend offered to buy it from me on the spot, Hope to get SAC approval to shoot in competion at n-ssa events. You will like it.
Having owned pistols from all the major producers over 20 years, including 3rd generation Colts, this is the best shooter I have owned. Power and kick is the best of all of them. It is a rather rough finish though, but who cares with the though use I give them. One problem I ran into is that the spring broke off the barrel wedge, so keep the paperwork so you can order another. A common problem I run into with all of them is a broken hand spring, and typically I order spares at purchase. While I have never had a spare fail, the original has not failed on this pistol yet. Great revolver, plan to buy another just to have a pair.