Are you looking for a black powder revolver? Don’t know where to begin? Here are some of the top black powder revolvers currently available. Unfortunately, only two of these stereotypes are true. These old wheelguns can be loaded correctly and you will get excellent accuracy. However, it is not easy nor quick. A lot of information about black powder revolvers has been lost over time as firearm technology improved. Although their designs are outdated today, some of the most prominent duelists in history, such as Wild Bill Hickok used cap-and ball revolvers well into cartridge era. The first of five highly-recommended black powder revolvers is the Uberti 1851 Navy.36 Caliber.
Wild Bill loved Navy revolvers and had one on him during the famous duel with Davis Tutt, widely considered to be the first ever quickdraw showdown. Tutt was hit in the chest at 75 yards, and was almost instantly killed. Many people today would be shocked to learn that a small.36-caliber ball can achieve this feat. The Colt Navy was the most powerful weapon at the time and is often praised in period literature, even more than the Army version. The buy-in cost for the action is relatively low. The Uberti Navy is not only affordable, but also very easy to shoot. This gun is an excellent starter gun for black powder revolver shooters, and it is easy to master.
MSRP: $349-399Taylor’s & Co 1858 Remington Target
The Taylor’s 1858 target is for you if you love the old but still want the modern features. The Taylor’s 1858 Target is a cap-and ball revolver, but it features modern-style target sights that can be adjusted. Fixed-sight black powder revolvers can have a problem because their point of aim or point of impact can vary by a large margin beyond a specified range. This model is ideal for hunters who enjoy the added challenge of hunting with a black-powder revolver. Taylor’s also offers a conversion cylinder which allows the model to fire low pressure.45 Colt cartridges.
MSRP $607.88Taylor’s LeMat Cavalry Revolver
The LeMat will draw attention to the range or anywhere else you choose to use it. It is a 9-shot.44 caliber revolver with an integrated smoothbore barrel (20ga). This bad boy can hold ten rounds, one of which could be a lot of buckshot. This pistol was used by Confederate cavalry during Civil War. This black powder revolver is undoubtedly the most expensive on the list, but it’s also one of the most visually striking.
MSRP: $1,383.53Pietta 1836 Texas Paterson
The Colt-Paterson revolver was the first successful revolver design. It was invented by Samuel Colt in 1836. It is the predecessor to all modern revolvers. It features a hidden trigger that pops out when you cock the hammer, giving it a unique appearance. This Pietta is a firing and working copy of the original design. It would make a great conversation piece at the range. The interesting thing about the Paterson is that it was created simultaneously with the fall of Alamo in 1836. The parties involved had flintlocks which, few realize, overlapped with the original Colt revolvers.
MSRP: $890Dixie/Pietta Revolver Kits
The Dixie build kits are worth looking at if you’re interested in trying a revolver build, or learning more about their internal workings. They come in a variety of models and are pre-fitted but not finished. These kits are a great way to practice metal finishing and scrollwork on a real gun, without the need to purchase and disassemble finished guns. Although it is not difficult to put these kits in working order, many people find the most challenging part of creating a visually appealing final product.
MSRP: $245BONUS – Taylor’s Howdah Hunter Percussion Pipessol
The Taylor’s Howdah black-powder pistol is a bonus pick. Although it is not a revolver it is a very cool gun with a lot of history. It was originally designed to be a self-defense weapon for elephant riders, and to deter tigers. It can use a variety shot types and has smoothbore barrels of 20 gauge. It can be used with standard revolver caps and is a great companion for other black powder revolvers.
MSRP: $1.036.21More on Muzzleloaders Target grids and bullseye sizes can be found in MOA. Get Free Targets
