1851 Navy Conversion

Own a distinctive chapter of 19th-century firearms history with the Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion Revolver. Inspired by the cartridge-conversion revolvers that emerged as metallic cartridges began replacing traditional cap-and-ball systems, this model reflects the important transition between percussion revolvers and the cartridge-firing designs that followed. Beginning in 1868, thousands of Colt and Remington percussion revolvers were converted for use with metallic cartridges. Historic conversion projects included the 1851 Navy, 1858 New Army, and 1860 Army. These conversions allowed existing revolver designs to evolve alongside rapidly changing ammunition technology rather than immediately becoming obsolete. Remington introduced single-action cartridge conversions in 1868, replacing the original cap-and-ball cylinder of the 1858 New Army with a cartridge cylinder, loading gate, and new breech face. The frame was also modified to accept an ejector assembly. Colt followed with its own conversion work. In 1871, the company received an Army contract to convert 1,000 Model 1860 Army percussion revolvers to use .44-caliber centerfire cartridges produced at the Frankford Arsenal. By 1872, Colt was filling civilian orders for metallic-cartridge revolvers, including open-top conversions based on the 1851 Navy. The evolution continued in 1873 with the Richards-Mason conversion of the 1860 Army. Using a system patented by Colt employees Charles Richards and William Mason, existing cap-and-ball cylinders were modified to accept a conversion ring and metallic cartridges. The Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion brings that transitional design era to modern collectors and enthusiasts, offering a historically inspired interpretation of one of the most recognizable revolver platforms of the American frontier period.

Why collectors choose the Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion

• Historically inspired open-top cartridge-conversion design
• Based on the iconic 1851 Navy revolver platform
• Represents the transition from percussion to metallic-cartridge firearms
• Strong fit for collectors of Old West and 19th-century firearm designs
• Crafted by Uberti, known for reproduction firearms with period-focused styling and detail

Model Number: 341360