The 1851 Navy Colt is a legendary revolver, a symbol of the Wild West and a piece of American history. But its story doesn't end with its original .36 caliber. The fascinating evolution of the 1851 Navy includes its conversion to the more powerful .38 Special, a transformation that significantly extended its lifespan and cemented its place in both historical and modern firearm circles. This article will explore the 1851 Navy Conversion .38 Special, examining its history, modifications, and enduring appeal.
The Colt 1851 Navy: A Foundation of Legend
The Colt 1851 Navy revolver, introduced in 1851, quickly became a popular sidearm among civilians and soldiers alike. Its relatively lightweight design, reliable mechanism, and capacity for six .36 caliber rounds made it a formidable weapon for its time. The .36 caliber round, while effective at close range, eventually proved to be somewhat underpowered for certain applications. This limitation paved the way for the conversion process. The popularity of the 1851 Navy design itself is a testament to its inherent quality and appeal – a factor that greatly influenced its later conversion. Many were produced, and many survived, leading to the availability of guns for conversion.
Key Features of the Original 1851 Navy:
- Caliber: .36 caliber
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Action: Percussion cap and ball
- Material: Primarily cast iron frame
The relatively simple design of the 1851 Navy's frame made it a surprisingly suitable candidate for conversion to a more modern cartridge.
The Conversion Process: Transforming a Classic
The conversion of the 1851 Navy to .38 Special wasn't a factory process; it was primarily undertaken by gunsmiths and custom shops. This involved several key modifications:
Major Modifications:
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Cylinder Bore Enlargement: The original .36 caliber cylinder needed to be bored out to accommodate the larger .38 Special cartridge. This was a precise operation, requiring skilled craftsmanship to ensure the cylinder remained structurally sound. Improper boring could weaken the cylinder and render the revolver unsafe.
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New Cylinder Construction: In some cases, instead of re-boring the original cylinder, entirely new cylinders were manufactured specifically for the .38 Special round. This allowed for better control over the dimensions and tolerances.
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Loading Mechanism Modifications: The percussion cap system was entirely removed. The conversion required installation of a new loading mechanism designed for cartridges, involving the creation of loading gates for the bullets.
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Barrel Considerations: While not always altered, some conversions included barrel modifications to optimize the accuracy and ballistics of the .38 Special round.
These modifications transformed the antiquated percussion revolver into a modern cartridge firearm, significantly increasing its stopping power and utility.
The .38 Special Advantage: Enhanced Performance
The shift from the .36 caliber to the .38 Special was a significant upgrade. The .38 Special delivered substantially more energy and stopping power, making it a more effective weapon for both self-defense and law enforcement. The conversion greatly extended the usefulness of the 1851 Navy in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Comparison Table: .36 Caliber vs. .38 Special
| Feature | .36 Caliber | .38 Special |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .36 | .38 |
| Muzzle Energy | Lower | Significantly Higher |
| Stopping Power | Less | Greater |
| Range | Shorter | Longer |
| Modern Ammunition Availability | Limited, often black powder substitutes | Readily available |
The 1851 Navy Conversion .38 Special Today: Collector's Item and Shooter's Delight
Today, the 1851 Navy Conversion .38 Special is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. These converted revolvers represent a unique blend of history and modern functionality. They are historically significant, offering a tangible link to a bygone era, while simultaneously providing a fun and relatively safe shooting experience with readily available ammunition. However, it's crucial to remember that these are antique firearms and require careful handling and maintenance.
Considerations for Owning a Converted 1851 Navy:
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Authenticity: Verifying the authenticity of a conversion can be challenging. Look for reputable dealers and experts to assess the firearm's history and legitimacy.
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Safety: Always handle antique firearms with extreme caution. Proper maintenance and knowledge of safe gun handling practices are essential.
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Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical to preserving the condition of the revolver.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Steel and Time
The 1851 Navy Conversion .38 Special stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a classic firearm. Its conversion to a modern cartridge demonstrated both ingenuity and adaptability, extending the life and relevance of a legendary revolver. For collectors and shooters alike, it remains a cherished piece of history, a stunning example of craftsmanship, and a surprisingly fun firearm to shoot, showcasing the lasting legacy of the Colt 1851 Navy.