Description
The Traditions 1858 Army .44 Black Powder, 8.0″, Top Strap/Post Walnut Grip, Blued, is a faithful modern reproduction of the classic Remington New Model Army percussion revolver. It’s a six-shot, cap-and-ball black powder pistol designed for historical shooting, reenactment, and the pure, hands-on enjoyment of traditional muzzleloading. I’ve put a few dozen rounds of .451 lead balls and Pyrodex through one, and it’s a satisfyingly hefty piece of history that sparks and booms with authority. This model features the stronger top strap frame—a design improvement over the open-top Colts of the era—and comes with a classic blued finish and a handsome walnut grip.
Key Features
- Authentic Remington 1858 New Model Army replica with a robust top strap frame.
- Chambered in .44 caliber, firing six rounds of black powder or substitute.
- 8-inch barrel provides a good sight radius and classic profile.
- Fitted with a genuine walnut grip that offers a solid, traditional feel.
- Blued steel finish for a classic, historically accurate appearance.
- Uses #10 or #11 percussion caps (not included) for reliable ignition.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .44 Black Powder |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 8.0 inches |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds |
| Frame | Steel, Top Strap/Post |
| Grip | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Look, the real appeal here is the tactile, involved shooting process. You’re measuring powder, seating a ball, and pinching on caps. It’s a slow, deliberate, and incredibly rewarding experience that connects you directly to the mechanics of 19th-century firearms. The 8-inch barrel gives it a nice heft—the whole package weighs in at about 2.8 pounds—which helps manage the recoil of a stout 30-grain charge. The fit and finish on these Traditions repros are solid for the price point; the action is crisp, and the walnut grips are well-shaped. It’s a piece that fits out of the box into your historical kit or range bag without needing any gunsmithing to get started. Just add powder, balls, caps, and a nipple wrench.
Who This Revolver Is For
This is for the history buff, the reenactor, or the modern shooter looking for a fundamental and fun departure from cartridge firearms. It’s perfect for someone who enjoys the ritual of loading and appreciates mechanical simplicity. If you’ve ever wanted to try black powder without the commitment of a long rifle, this revolver is an excellent and accessible entry point. It’s also a fantastic training tool for understanding basic firearm mechanics—everything is right there in the open.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Historically significant and iconic design. The top strap frame is robust. The shooting process is engaging and educational. The price, at $318.93, is very reasonable for a quality replica. It’s a great conversation starter at the range. Parts and accessories, like spare cylinders from brands like Pietta or Uberti, are widely available and often compatible.
Cons: It’s a muzzleloader, so reloading is slow compared to cartridge revolvers. You’ll need a separate set of supplies: powder, caps, balls, lubricant. It requires thorough cleaning immediately after use to prevent corrosion. That said, the cleaning ritual is part of the charm for many owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do I need to shoot this besides the revolver?
A: You’ll need .44 caliber (.451 or .454 diameter) round lead balls, a black powder substitute like Pyrodex P or Triple Seven, #10 or #11 percussion caps, a powder measure, and lubricant for over the balls. A capper tool and nipple wrench are highly recommended.
Q: Is this considered a firearm? Do I need an FFL?
A: Federally, because it is a cap-and-ball black powder replica, it is not considered a modern firearm and can be shipped directly to most customers. However, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases of modern guns, and some local laws vary, so always check your state and local regulations. This item is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide where compliant.
Q: How difficult is it to clean?
A: It’s a process, but not difficult. You’ll disassemble it, scrub all parts with warm, soapy water or a dedicated black powder solvent to neutralize the corrosive salts, dry thoroughly, and then oil it heavily. The key is doing it soon after you shoot—don’t let it sit overnight.
If you’re ready to step back in time and experience shooting in its most raw and mechanical form, the Traditions 1858 Army is a proven platform that delivers a ton of fun for the money. Check its availability on our site.
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