Colt 1860 New Model Army - How'd they make it larger bored?

Published on January 29, 2026
Duration: 1:40

This video provides an expert-level breakdown of the mechanical differences between the Colt 1860 New Model Army and the 1851 Old Model Navy, focusing on how Colt achieved a larger .44 caliber bore on the 1860 model. The explanation details the use of a rebated cylinder, frame notching, barrel positioning, and forcing cone enlargement to accommodate the larger caliber while maintaining frame compatibility. The presenter, Othais, demonstrates a high level of authority in historical firearm mechanics.

Quick Summary

The Colt 1860 New Model Army achieved its larger .44 caliber bore through innovative mechanical design, including a rebated cylinder, frame notching, and barrel repositioning. This allowed the larger chamber to fit within a frame size similar to the .36 caliber 1851 Navy, utilizing improved steel to manage increased pressure.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Colt 1860 Army
  2. 00:24The Rebated Cylinder Design
  3. 00:54Mechanical Design Changes
  4. 01:11Model Comparison and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Colt make the 1860 Army revolver with a larger caliber bore?

Colt achieved the larger .44 caliber bore on the 1860 Army by using a rebated cylinder, which reduced its rear diameter to fit the existing frame. This allowed for larger chambers. Further modifications included notching the frame, moving the barrel forward, and enlarging the forcing cone.

What is a rebated cylinder in firearms?

A rebated cylinder in firearms is one where the rear portion is machined to a smaller diameter. This design allows a cylinder with larger chambers to fit into a frame that was originally intended for a smaller cylinder, as seen in the Colt 1860 Army compared to the 1851 Navy.

What mechanical changes were made for the Colt 1860 Army's .44 caliber?

To accommodate the .44 caliber, Colt modified the 1860 Army by notching the frame, repositioning the barrel forward to allow for a longer cylinder, and enlarging the forcing cone. These changes enabled the larger caliber on a frame similar to the .36 caliber 1851 Navy.

Did Colt use stronger steel for the 1860 Army revolver?

Yes, Colt utilized improved English steel for the 1860 New Model Army to better handle the increased pressures associated with the .44 caliber. However, the speaker notes that marketing claims regarding the steel's exceptional strength were likely exaggerated.

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