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Interview: Transformation of Colt 1860 12-Gauge Revolver

At a firearms exhibition, I encountered an unusual Colt 1860 Army Richards Revolver with twelve cylinder slots instead of the standard six. The vendor was unclear if this modification was an original feature or a craft project by a frontier gunsmith. The question remains: was this extra...

Q&A on the Colt 1860 12-Notch Revolver Conversion
Q&A on the Colt 1860 12-Notch Revolver Conversion

Interview: Transformation of Colt 1860 12-Gauge Revolver

In the annals of firearm history, one particular variant has captured the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts alike: the 12-notch Colt 1860 Army Richards Conversion. This unique piece was produced in a limited run between 1873 and 1878, with fewer than 120 factory versions ever made.

The 12-notch system was designed to enhance the safety of the revolver, a feature that was much needed in the turbulent post-Civil War era. However, these safety notches, cut between the chambers of the military-grade revolver, the thickest part of the cylinder, were not without controversy.

Guns with 'blow-out holes' were a direct result of the 12-notch system. These holes, visible at the bottom of the original cylinder notches, where the cylinders are the thinnest, were caused by a small chunk of metal being 'blown out' during the firing process. This led to a misconception that the safety notches themselves were to blame for the cylinder ruptures. In reality, the fault lay in the original cylinder notches, which were not designed to withstand the pressure generated during firing.

Despite the initial concerns, the 12-notch system was a testament to the ingenuity of its time. The effectiveness of the safety notches depended on a perfectly timed shot, a feat that was not always achievable in the heat of battle. However, for collectors today, the rarity and historical significance of the 12-notch versions make them highly sought after.

It is essential to exercise caution when purchasing a 12-notch Colt 1860 Army Richards Conversion. Colt also produced 12-notch cylinders for separate sales, and unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of this to create spurious versions. The search results do not provide information about the individuals who made the 12-notch versions of the Colt 1860 Army Richards Conversion, making authenticity verification a challenge.

In conclusion, the 12-notch Colt 1860 Army Richards Conversion stands as a fascinating chapter in the history of firearm development. Despite its short production run and initial issues, its rarity and historical significance continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. As with any valuable historical artifact, it is crucial to approach its acquisition with care and due diligence.

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