Colt 1861 Navy question

H

Hush07

CGN Regular
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
Location
Southeastern Ontario
I have an 1861 and the serial #'s start with an 'N'. I can't seem to find any reference to this prefix. The bottom of the grip has a serial # with 'N' also. The cylinder has the same # but with no 'N'. There is no .36 cal stamp on the brass frame, and no other markings on the frame either side.
 
Last edited:
This is ludicrously late reply.
However, if it's antique original, post Civil War the US Navy would inspect Whitney revolvers and if they were found serviceable for continued use the armorer would stamp an N on various parts.
I put forth perhaps your Colt underwent the same post war inspection process and it passed muster.

Maybe
 
I should have updated this thread. About 2 weeks later I found out from Colt, that my piece was not one of theirs. Having almost no knowledge in this area, I was trusting the seller. I was able to return it as I did not want a piece, that could not be verified, and may need to be registered. To me it was a lovely piece, but of course looking back all the signs were there that it was a reproduction. Had I posted a picture, I'm sure most would have known it was a reproduction. The seller still has the 1860 Armi San Marco for sale, listed as 38 cal, for a much reduced price. I'm sure it was an honest mistake, probably had no registration paper when brought in.
 
Last edited:
I'm not sure what calibre was posted when I bought it, but now it says 38 cal. I have since learned a lot about Colts, but I now leave it to someone that's an expert on these revolvers.
 
It's easy to be decieved regarding the caliber of muzzleloading cap & ball firearms.
Rifles are often loaded with a cotton patch so this ammo is partially smaller than the listed caliber.
44 cap and ball revolvers take 45 caliber round balls.
I own an antique 36 cap and ball revolver but .380 round ball fit too loose, hence I safely load it with .389 round ball to accomplish a ring of lead during the loading sequence.
Lots of room for confusion for everyone friend.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom