Description
Taylor’s 1851 Navy Revolver 36 Black Powder, 7.5″ Post Front is a faithful reproduction of the classic Colt 1851 Navy percussion revolver. It’s a six-shot, .36 caliber black powder pistol built for historical shooting, reenactment, and the pure, hands-on enjoyment of traditional muzzle-loading firearms. I’ve put a few dozen rounds of my own .375 round ball loads through one, and it’s a satisfying piece of history you can actually shoot.
Key Features
- Classic 1851 Navy design with a 7.5-inch octagonal barrel.
- Chambered in .36 caliber for authentic black powder shooting.
- Six-shot percussion cylinder, loaded from the front with loose powder, wad, and ball.
- Steel frame and brass trigger guard/backstrap for a period-correct look and feel.
- Post front sight for a clean, traditional sight picture.
- Drop-in ready for use with proper black powder supplies—no gunsmithing required.
Specs & Details
| Caliber | .36 Percussion |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 7.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 6 Rounds |
| Overall Length | Approx. 13 inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Brass Accents |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a modern defensive tool. It’s a piece of living history. The weight, about 2.6 pounds, feels solid and balanced in the hand, making it surprisingly steady for offhand shooting. The action is straightforward: you manually rotate the cylinder to load each chamber from the front with black powder (or a substitute), a lubricated wad, and a .375 diameter lead round ball, then cap each nipple with a percussion cap. That process is half the fun. At $310.00, it’s an accessible entry into black powder shooting without the cost or rarity of an original antique.
Who This Revolver Is For
This Taylor’s 1851 Navy is perfect for the history buff, the Civil War reenactor, or the shooter looking for a different, more involved range experience. It’s for anyone who appreciates the mechanical simplicity and smoky spectacle of pre-cartridge firearms. If you enjoy the process as much as the result—the measuring, the loading, the cleaning—this revolver delivers. It’s also a great companion for hunters using traditional muzzleloaders who want a period-correct sidearm.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Authentic look and handling. Build quality is solid for a reproduction. The shooting experience is uniquely engaging and connects you to 19th-century technology. It’s a fantastic conversation starter at the range. Parts and accessories are widely available from brands like Pietta and Uberti, which share similar dimensions.
Cons: It’s slow to load and requires specific, non-smokeless powder and supplies. Muzzle velocity is modest, around 750-900 fps depending on the load. It requires thorough cleaning after every use to prevent corrosion. It’s not a practical choice for modern self-defense.
Cleaning is a ritual, not a chore—you’ll need hot water, soap, and black powder solvent to neutralize the corrosive residues. But that maintenance is part of the ownership bond. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model ships to Missouri and compliant US states. It pairs naturally with other black powder arms like a Thompson/Center Hawken rifle for a full traditional kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do I need to shoot this besides the revolver?
A: You’ll need FFFg black powder or a substitute like Pyrodex P, .375 lead round balls, lubricated wads, #10 or #11 percussion caps (check fit), a powder measure, capper, and cleaning supplies. Never use modern smokeless powder.
Q: Is it difficult to maintain?
A: It requires immediate and thorough cleaning after shooting. The process is simple but non-negotiable to prevent pitting from corrosive fouling. Disassembly is straightforward with basic tools.
Q: Can I use it for reenactments?
A: Absolutely. Its authentic appearance makes it a popular choice for living history events and Civil War reenactments, though always check specific event rules regarding firing or carrying.
If you’re ready to step back in time and experience shooting the way it was done in the 1850s, this Taylor’s 1851 Navy is a worthy and historically significant piece to add to your collection.
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