Uberti 1851 Navy

uberti 1851 navy

The Uberti 1851 Navy revolver is a meticulously crafted reproduction of the legendary Colt 1851 Navy, a black powder revolver that became one of the most widely used firearms of the mid-19th century. Renowned for its balance, reliability, and aesthetic appeal, this revolver played a crucial role in American history, from the battlefields of the Civil War to the hands of legendary figures such as Wild Bill Hickok. Uberti, a leading manufacturer of historical firearm replicas, has faithfully recreated this iconic firearm, offering enthusiasts, collectors, and reenactors a chance to experience a piece of history.

This comprehensive guide delves into the design, construction, history, performance, shooting experience, maintenance, and practical applications of the Uberti 1851 Navy revolver, providing an in-depth look at why this firearm remains a favorite among black powder shooting enthusiasts.

Historical Background

The original Colt 1851 Navy revolver was introduced by Samuel Colt in 1850 and quickly became one of the most popular sidearms of the 19th century. Its .36 caliber chambering, six-shot capacity, and octagonal barrel made it an accurate and reliable choice for military personnel, lawmen, and civilians alike. The revolver was widely used during the American Civil War, seeing service with both Union and Confederate forces.

The term “Navy” in its name does not indicate that it was exclusively used by naval forces but rather comes from the engraved naval battle scene on the cylinder, depicting a victory of the Texas Navy over the Mexican fleet. The Colt 1851 Navy was a preferred sidearm of many historical figures, including Wild Bill Hickok, who carried a pair of them throughout his life.

Uberti has successfully recreated this historic firearm, maintaining its original features while using modern manufacturing techniques to ensure reliability and durability.

Design and Construction

Frame and Barrel

The Uberti 1851 Navy features a steel or brass frame, depending on the variant, and an octagonal barrel that adds to its distinctive look. The standard barrel length is 7.5 inches, which contributes to its excellent accuracy. The revolver’s blued finish on the barrel and cylinder enhances its durability while maintaining historical authenticity.

Cylinder and Engraving

One of the most notable features of the 1851 Navy is its engraved cylinder, which depicts a naval battle scene. This engraving is a faithful reproduction of the original artwork found on Colt’s revolvers. The cylinder holds six rounds of .36 caliber black powder ammunition, making it a practical firearm for historical reenactments and black powder shooting competitions.

Grip and Ergonomics

The Uberti 1851 Navy is equipped with a walnut grip, which provides a comfortable hold and enhances the revolver’s classic appearance. The grip is designed to fit naturally in the hand, allowing for steady aiming and control. The overall weight of the revolver is approximately 2.6 pounds (1.18 kg), providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability.

Loading Mechanism

Like the original, the Uberti 1851 Navy is a cap-and-ball revolver, meaning it requires loose black powder, lead balls, and percussion caps to function. The loading lever located beneath the barrel allows for easy seating of the lead ball into the chamber after the powder has been poured in. The revolver’s open-top design also contributes to its historical accuracy.

Performance and Shooting Experience

Accuracy and Handling

The long barrel and well-balanced weight of the Uberti 1851 Navy contribute to its impressive accuracy. Many black powder enthusiasts find that the revolver can consistently hit targets at distances of up to 50 yards, making it one of the most precise cap-and-ball revolvers from its era.

Recoil and Muzzle Velocity

Due to its .36 caliber chambering, the Uberti 1851 Navy generates relatively low recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even for those new to black powder firearms. The typical muzzle velocity of a properly loaded 1851 Navy is around 800–1,000 feet per second (fps), depending on the powder charge and projectile weight.

Reliability

When properly maintained and loaded, the Uberti 1851 Navy is an extremely reliable revolver. The robust action and high-quality craftsmanship ensure smooth operation, making it a favorite among both collectors and shooters.

Maintenance and Care

Cleaning the Barrel and Cylinder

Since the Uberti 1851 Navy uses black powder, regular cleaning is essential to prevent fouling and corrosion. After each shooting session, the revolver should be fully disassembled, cleaned, and oiled to ensure longevity.

Preventing Rust and Corrosion

Black powder residue is highly corrosive, so it is important to clean the firearm using hot water, bore solvent, or specialized black powder cleaning solutions. Applying a thin layer of gun oil to metal surfaces will help prevent rust.

Checking and Replacing Percussion Caps

One of the most common issues with cap-and-ball revolvers is misfiring due to faulty or improperly seated percussion caps. Regularly inspect the caps for proper fit and ensure they are fully seated on the nipples to prevent misfires.

Practical Applications

Historical Reenactments and Collecting

The Uberti 1851 Navy is a popular choice for historical reenactments, as it accurately replicates the firearm carried by soldiers and gunslingers of the 19th century. Many collectors also appreciate its authenticity and craftsmanship, making it a valuable addition to historical firearm collections.

Black Powder Shooting Competitions

Competitive black powder shooting is a growing sport, and the Uberti 1851 Navy is often used in Cowboy Action Shooting and historical marksmanship events. Its accuracy and smooth handling make it an excellent choice for these competitions.

Self-Defense Considerations

While the Uberti 1851 Navy is a historically significant firearm, it is not commonly used for modern self-defense due to its slow reloading process and reliance on black powder components. However, it is still capable of delivering powerful shots and has been used for self-defense in historical contexts.

Variants of the Uberti 1851 Navy

Uberti offers several variants of the 1851 Navy, each with unique features:

• Standard Model – Features a steel frame and traditional blued finish.
• Brass Frame Model – A more affordable version with a brass frame instead of steel.
• London Model – Features a rounded trigger guard and different grip style for those who prefer a slightly altered handling experience.
• Civilian and Military Models – Some models replicate versions issued to specific military units or civilian markets during the 19th century.