Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

[LibertyHallVols]

One issue with authentic officer's impressions are the lack of authentic sidearms. One option, though pricey, are the Second Generation ("Colt Black Powder") and Signature Series Colt percussion revolvers. These could be found occasionally for $300 within the last ten years, but prices are not on a downward trajectory.

I say this because currently Lodgewood has three good pistols available:
1) A Second Generation 1862 Pocket Police: http://www.lodgewood.com/Unfired-Col...er_p_3368.html (this is what I carry).

2) A Signature Series 1849 Pocket: These were very common among foot officers on both sides, but are very underrepresented in the hobby today. http://www.lodgewood.com/Colt-Signat...er_p_3370.html

3) A Signature Series 1861 Navy: This is a larger frame pistol, like the 1860 Army or 1851 Navy. As such, I think they were probably less common, but still a very appropriate piece to carry. http://www.lodgewood.com/Colt-Signat...er_p_3369.html

I'm not posting this to "advertise" for Lodgewood (I'm not affiliated with them in any way). Rather, I wanted to let my fellow hobbyists know that there is a "better way" and these options are available now! Enjoy!

[Scott Sheets]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

I'm working on restoring a Smith and Wesson No. 2 currently. Can't wait to take it out.

[AndrewGrim]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

Am I the only one that hates carrying the dead weight around.

[LibertyHallVols]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

Am I the only one that hates carrying the dead weight around.

Yep, just you. ;-)

[CompanyWag]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

I used to carry a S&W No. 2 in a private purchase holster as part of my officer's impression. Much less weight than Colt's offerings. It had temporary inserts in the cylinder to accept .22 cal starter blanks. Never felt the need to fire it, though was glad to have that option if necessary.

[coastaltrash]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

Oddly I just traded my pocket colt to Comer Gunworks on a 7mm pinfire. It’s small, lightweight and functions.

[LibertyHallVols]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

Good posts! Yes, the .22 Smith's and imported arms like French pinfires, as well as larger arms like Kerr, Adams, and Starr revolvers are great options. The Starr is available as a repro now.

To echo a FB post: "What about Remingtons?"
What I like about these Colts is that they need no "defarbing". Markings are right. Finishes are right. They are accurate reproductions! Within the last year or so, I've seen defarbed Remingtons at Lodgewood. I've not had a chance to examine them myself, but I applaud the effort! Adding proper manufacturer's markings, patent dates, etc. is a painstaking process if properly reproduced. Some of these marks were originally roll-stamped, which would be a huge investment. Other marks (especially on English weapons) were engraved by hand (which is how Birmingham Enfields were marked, by the way!). Neither is cheap or simple to tool-up or do and there are a number of restoration gunsmiths out there that specialize in "freshening up" those original markings (though rumors abound about what they "really do"... don't get me started on "restored" 1911's!).

Pardon the tangent!

[LTHop]

Re: Authentic Revolvers for Officers' Impressions

I use either a LeMat, Naval model with the hammer spur for living history or my 1855 Side Root Revolvet to teach a bit to the public about the rarities in my holster.

For battle a 1851 Colt Squareback or 1858 Remington for ease of reload, access to spare parts and just pleasure.