Pietta vs. Uberti: 1851 Navy

Published on February 27, 2021
Duration: 10:02

This guide provides a detailed comparison between Pietta and Uberti 1851 Navy revolvers, drawing on expert insights from Guns of the West. It covers critical aspects like fit and finish, historical accuracy of markings, loading plunger functionality, and rifling direction. The assessment highlights Uberti's edge in historical detail and aesthetics, while Pietta offers a more budget-friendly option. The video emphasizes that both brands provide a similar action feel, making the choice dependent on collector priorities and budget.

Quick Summary

The Guns of the West channel compares Pietta and Uberti 1851 Navy revolvers, highlighting Uberti's superior fit, finish, and historical accuracy with hidden markings and a deeper loading plunger, while Pietta offers a more budget-friendly option. Both exhibit similar action smoothness, but rifling direction differs (Pietta clockwise, Uberti counter-clockwise).

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Comparison Setup
  2. 01:10Fit and Finish Analysis
  3. 01:58Historical Accuracy: Markings
  4. 03:58Historical Accuracy: Loading Plunger
  5. 05:01Historical Accuracy: Rifling
  6. 06:16Action and Smoothness
  7. 06:50Cost and Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between Pietta and Uberti 1851 Navy revolvers?

The primary differences lie in fit and finish, with Uberti generally offering smoother edges and better grip integration. Uberti also hides markings for historical accuracy, uses a deeper loading plunger for conical bullets, and features counter-clockwise rifling, while Pietta has visible markings, a blunter plunger, and clockwise rifling.

Which 1851 Navy revolver is more historically accurate, Pietta or Uberti?

Uberti is generally considered more historically accurate due to its hidden manufacturer markings, deeper loading plunger accommodating conical bullets, and smoother overall finish, closely mimicking original Colt models. Pietta's visible markings and blunter plunger are less historically precise.

What is the price difference between Pietta and Uberti 1851 Navy revolvers?

Pietta 1851 Navy revolvers are the more budget-friendly option, typically ranging from $250 to $260. Uberti 1851 Navy revolvers are more expensive, with prices usually falling between $325 and $350.

Does rifling direction matter on an 1851 Navy replica?

Rifling direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise) can matter for historical accuracy, as both types were used on original Colt 1851 Navy revolvers across different production periods. Uberti uses counter-clockwise, while Pietta uses clockwise, and both have historical precedent.

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