Beyond The Colt: Why The Remington New Army 1858 Deserves Your Attention

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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Beyond the Colt: Why the Remington New Army 1858 Deserves Your Attention

The Colt Peacemaker. The name conjures images of the Wild West, cowboys, and iconic gunfights. It's undeniably a legend. But while the Colt rightfully holds a prominent place in firearms history, another revolver deserves a closer look: the Remington New Army 1858. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, the Remington 1858 offers a compelling blend of history, performance, and unique features that make it a worthy addition to any serious firearms enthusiast's collection.

A History Steeped in the American West

The Remington 1858 New Army revolver saw extensive service during the American Civil War and beyond. Adopted by the Union Army, its robust construction and reliable function proved invaluable in the heat of battle. Unlike the Colt, which used a more complex, self-contained cartridge system, the Remington 1858 was a percussion cap revolver, relying on loose powder and a conical bullet. This design, while seemingly simpler, offered its own advantages, particularly in terms of reliability and ease of maintenance in the field.

Key Differences from the Colt Peacemaker

While both revolvers share the general form of a six-shot, single-action percussion revolver, several key differences set the Remington apart:

• Cylinder Release: The Remington boasts a simpler, more robust cylinder release mechanism, making it faster and easier to reload under pressure.
• Frame Strength: The Remington's solid frame design is renowned for its strength and durability, able to withstand significant recoil and prolonged use.
• Customization: The Remington's simpler design allows for easier and more extensive customization and upgrades by gunsmiths.
• Availability: While both are collectible, Remington 1858 reproductions and parts are often more readily available and less expensive than Colt equivalents.

Beyond the Battlefield: Practical Considerations

The Remington 1858 wasn't just a warhorse; its practical design made it suitable for a variety of uses, from civilian self-defense to hunting. Its powerful .44 caliber round provided considerable stopping power, making it an effective tool in the hands of skilled shooters.

Performance and Accuracy

While not as inherently accurate as some modern firearms, the Remington 1858, when properly maintained and used with quality ammunition, delivers respectable accuracy at practical ranges. The key to success lies in understanding the nuances of black powder loading and proper trigger control.

Collecting and Restoration

The Remington 1858 is a desirable collector's item, with a broad range of original and reproduction models available. The accessibility of parts and the thriving community of enthusiasts make restoration and maintenance relatively straightforward. This allows enthusiasts to enjoy both the history and the shooting experience.

Why Choose the Remington 1858?

The Remington 1858 New Army revolver offers a compelling alternative to the ubiquitous Colt Peacemaker. Its robust design, reliable performance, and rich history make it a captivating piece of American firearms heritage. For those seeking a piece of history that's both functional and historically significant, the Remington 1858 deserves a place at the top of your consideration list. It represents a significant chapter in firearms history, deserving of recognition beyond its shadow cast by the more famous Colt.

Conclusion: A Legacy of its Own

The Remington 1858 New Army isn't just a lesser-known sibling to the Colt Peacemaker; it's a firearm with its own unique strengths and a compelling story to tell. Its rugged design, historical significance, and potential for enjoyment make it a worthy addition to any collection, offering a powerful and engaging connection to a pivotal era in American history. Don't let its relative obscurity fool you – the Remington 1858 is a true classic deserving of your attention.