1847 Walker - The most powerful military revolver ever issued?

Published on September 6, 2023
Duration: 17:05

This guide details essential modifications for the 1847 Colt Walker, focusing on improving reliability for modern shooters. It covers cylinder preparation, replacing nipples to prevent cap jams, fixing the loading lever, and recommendations for projectiles and powder charges, drawing on the expertise of a recognized firearms authority.

Quick Summary

The 1847 Colt Walker, a .44 caliber black powder revolver, was the most powerful military sidearm of its time, designed for the Texas Rangers. Modern shooters can improve its reliability by replacing nipples with Slix-Shot cones to prevent cap jams and by modifying the loading lever's retention spring. Recommended loads include 260-grain bullets with 50 grains of 3Fg black powder.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 1847 Colt Walker
  2. 01:22Historical Context: Texas Rangers & Mexican-American War
  3. 03:39Modifications for Reliability: Nipples & Loading Lever
  4. 06:52Projectiles and Powder Charges
  5. 10:46Ballistic Testing Results
  6. 12:54Range Performance and Fouling

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 1847 Colt Walker the most powerful military revolver?

The 1847 Colt Walker was considered the most powerful military revolver ever issued until the advent of the .357 Magnum. Its immense power stemmed from its large .44 caliber and its capacity to handle substantial black powder charges, delivering significant energy for its era.

How can the reliability of a 1847 Colt Walker be improved for modern shooting?

Reliability can be enhanced by replacing factory nipples with Slix-Shot cone nipples to prevent cap jams and by filing a flat on the loading lever's retention spring to prevent it from dropping under recoil. Proper projectile and powder selection is also key.

What are the recommended projectile and powder loads for the 1847 Colt Walker?

For historical accuracy and power, 260-grain conical bullets from Eras Gone Bullets are recommended. A charge of 50 grains of 3Fg black powder is advised for safety and accuracy, though the cylinder can hold up to 60 grains.

What historical context is important for understanding the 1847 Colt Walker?

The 1847 Colt Walker was developed for the Texas Rangers during the Mexican-American War. Its massive size and weight were intentional, designed as a 'horse pistol' to be carried in saddle holsters, representing a significant leap in firepower over earlier revolvers.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from InRangeTV

View all →