Uberti 1849 Wells Fargo .31, 4″ Barrel Review

Description

I was cleaning out my safe the other day and pulled out my Uberti 1849 Wells Fargo .31, 4″ Barrel. It’s not my go-to for a day at the range, but it’s a piece of history you can hold in your hand—a faithful reproduction of the compact percussion revolver that was a favorite for concealed carry in the 1850s. This isn’t a modern defensive tool; it’s a tangible link to the past, a conversation starter, and a genuinely fun shooter for anyone interested in the roots of American firearms culture. At $315.17, it’s an accessible entry into black powder.

Here’s the thing—this little .31 caliber pocket pistol is a specific kind of fun. It’s a single-action, cap-and-ball revolver with a 4-inch barrel and a five-shot cylinder. The fit and finish from Uberti are excellent, with a polished brass frame and a color-case-hardened hammer and loading lever. It’s a historically accurate replica that ships to Missouri and compliant US states, and it’s drop-in ready for your first trip to the range—no gunsmithing required to start loading and shooting.

What You’re Getting

Unboxing this Wells Fargo feels like opening a time capsule. The weight is just right—not too heavy, but with a solid heft that speaks to its all-metal construction. The action is crisp right out of the box. Loading is a ritual: you’ll need to measure your black powder or substitute, seat a .315” round ball over each chamber, and finish with a percussion cap on each nipple. It’s a slower, more deliberate process than slapping in a magazine, and that’s the whole point. The experience is the product.

I’ve put maybe 50 rounds through mine, and it’s surprisingly accurate for a short-barreled pistol of this era. Recoil is negligible—more of a push than a snap. The fixed sights are rudimentary, just a notch and a blade, but they’re true to the original design. Cleaning is the real commitment after a session; black powder residue is corrosive and demands immediate attention. Think of it as part of the hobby. The overall length is a compact 9 inches, making it easy to store or display.

Caliber	.31 Percussion
Barrel Length	4 Inches
Overall Length	9 Inches
Capacity	5 Rounds
Frame Material	Polished Brass
Action	Single-Action

The Good & The Considerations

Pros: Impeccable historical authenticity and craftsmanship from Uberti. It’s a fantastic, hands-on way to learn firearms history. The shooting process is engaging and rewarding. Its compact size makes it a great display piece. The price point is very reasonable for a quality reproduction.

Cons: It’s a muzzleloader, so rate of fire is slow. You must source separate components: powder, balls, caps, and lubricant. Post-range cleaning is mandatory and more involved than with modern firearms. It’s a niche item—not for someone seeking a practical, modern defensive pistol.

Who This Is For

This revolver is perfect for the history buff, the black powder enthusiast, or the collector who appreciates the engineering of the antebellum period. It’s a superb teaching tool for demonstrating how firearms worked before metallic cartridges. If you enjoy the ritual and smoke of traditional shooting, you’ll love it. It also pairs beautifully with other period-correct gear from brands like Dixie Gun Works or possible display with a larger Uberti 1851 Navy or 1860 Army.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this considered a firearm? Do I need an FFL transfer?

A: Yes, it is a firearm. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases of this replica, just like any other modern gun. We handle that process through your local dealer.

Q: What do I need to buy separately to shoot it?

A: You’ll need black powder or a substitute like Pyrodex P, .315 caliber round balls, #10 or #11 percussion caps (nipple size may vary), a powder measure, and a lubricant like Bore Butter or Crisco for over-the-ball sealing.

Q: How difficult is it to clean and maintain?

A: It requires more diligence. You must disassemble and thoroughly clean the barrel, cylinder, and nipples with hot, soapy water or a dedicated black powder solvent after every use to prevent corrosion. It’s a process, but a satisfying one for the right person.

If you’re looking for a functional piece of history and understand what you’re stepping into, the Uberti 1849 Wells Fargo is a brilliant choice. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check it out on the site for more details.