Description
I was at the range last week, letting a new shooter try a polymer-framed wonder, when he spotted the case next to me. “Now that,” he said, pointing, “is a real gun.” He was looking at my Uberti 1860 Army Steel .44, 8″ Barrel. It has that effect. This isn’t just a replica; it’s a working piece of history you can shoot, a .44 caliber percussion revolver that balances frontier authenticity with modern manufacturing precision. For $315.17, it offers a tactile, deliberate shooting experience that modern semi-autos just can’t match.
Here’s the thing—shooting this revolver slows you down in the best way. The process of loading each chamber with powder, wad, and ball, then seating a percussion cap on each nipple, forces a mindfulness that’s become rare. I’ve put several hundred rounds of Goex FFFg black powder and .454 lead balls through mine, and the heft of that 8-inch octagonal barrel makes for a surprisingly steady hold. The single-action trigger is crisp, and the recoil from a full 30-grain charge is a stout, authoritative push rather than a snap. It’s a pure, mechanical conversation between you, the gun, and the target.
What You’re Getting
The fit and finish are where Uberti consistently shines. The polished steel has a classic, deep blue that looks right, and the one-piece walnut grip is shaped for a solid, natural hold. The action is tight out of the box, with a timing that’s spot-on. I didn’t have to do a thing—no gunsmithing required to get it range-ready. It’s a faithful reproduction of the original Colt design, meaning parts and holsters are widely available. Look for a quality leather rig from brands like Cimarron or Triple K, as they’re built for this specific frame and barrel length.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .44 Percussion |
| Barrel Length | 8 Inches |
| Overall Length | 13.5 Inches | Weight | 2.8 lbs |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Grip Material | Walnut |
The Good & The Considered
Pros: The historical accuracy and build quality are excellent for the price. The shooting experience is uniquely rewarding and teaches fundamental marksmanship. It’s incredibly reliable with proper loading procedure. The 8-inch barrel provides a great sight radius and classic profile. Cons: It’s a muzzleloader, so rate of fire is slow and reloading is a deliberate process at the bench. You’ll need to invest in powder, caps, balls, and cleaning supplies specific to black powder. That 2.8-pound weight is noticeable on a long carry, but it soaks up recoil on the firing line.
Who This Is For
This revolver is for the shooter who wants to connect with history, not just punch paper. It’s for the enthusiast who enjoys the ritual of loading and cleaning as much as the shot. It’s a fantastic entry into black powder shooting, a solid sidearm for historical reenactors, or simply a beautiful centerpiece for a collection that actually gets used. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, though an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this a cartridge gun or does it use black powder?
A: This is a traditional percussion cap revolver. It uses loose black powder (or a substitute like Pyrodex), a lubricated wad, a .454 round ball, and #11 percussion caps loaded into each of the six chambers.
Q: How difficult is it to clean after shooting black powder?
A: It’s a different process but straightforward. You need to clean it soon after shooting with hot, soapy water or a dedicated black powder solvent to neutralize the corrosive salts. It’s more involved than cleaning a modern centerfire, but it’s part of the tradition.
Q: Can I use modern smokeless powder in it?
A: Absolutely not. This revolver is designed only for black powder or approved black powder substitutes. Using modern smokeless powder is extremely dangerous and can cause catastrophic failure.
If you’re ready for a shooting experience that demands a bit more of you and gives a whole lot more back in satisfaction, the Uberti 1860 Army is waiting. Check availability and see more detailed images on our product page.
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