Colt 1860 Army: Shooting Paper Cartridges

Published on August 3, 2019
Duration: 2:51

This video demonstrates the process of modifying a Pietta Colt 1860 Army reproduction to fire paper cartridges. The presenter, Dustin Winegar, details the necessary metal removal from the loading port, the sanding and refinishing process, and the method for loading and firing the paper cartridges. Accuracy and chronograph data are also presented, offering insights into the performance of this historical ammunition type.

Quick Summary

Modifying a Pietta Colt 1860 Army to fire paper cartridges requires enlarging the loading port by removing metal. After modification, the area is sanded and refinished. The cartridges use 44 caliber Johnston and Dow bullets with 25 grains of Go-Ex Triple FG black powder and Remington No. 10 caps. Accuracy at 45 feet was good, with an average velocity of 646.3 FPS.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction and Paper Cartridge Overview
  2. 00:21Pietta Reproduction Loading Port Issues
  3. 00:31Metal Removal for Cartridge Fit
  4. 00:40Finishing and Refinishing the Modification
  5. 00:50Loading Paper Cartridges
  6. 01:06Percussion Cap Selection
  7. 01:49Accuracy Test Results
  8. 02:02Chronograph Data and Ballistics
  9. 02:18Bullet and Powder Specifications
  10. 02:30Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Pietta Colt 1860 Army shoot paper cartridges?

Yes, but it requires modification. The loading port on Pietta reproductions is too small for standard paper cartridges. Significant metal removal is necessary to allow the cartridges to fit properly into the cylinder chambers.

What modifications are needed for a Colt 1860 Army to fire paper cartridges?

The primary modification involves enlarging the loading port by removing metal. After shaping the port, the area should be sanded and refinished, for example, with Birchwood Casey bluing, to protect the metal.

What are the specifications for paper cartridges fired in the Colt 1860 Army?

The video uses 44 caliber Johnston and Dow bullets from Eras Gone Bullet Molds, loaded with 25 grains of Go-Ex Triple FG black powder. Remington Number 10 caps are used for ignition.

What kind of accuracy can be expected when shooting paper cartridges from a modified Colt 1860 Army?

At 45 feet, the accuracy was reported as 'pretty good,' with four bullets grouping virtually in one hole. Some slight jerking of the other two shots was noted.

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