Originally Posted by
rodwha
I thought it was built (1860 Army) on a Navy frame, which is why it has the rebated cylinder. Am I thinking of a Police model or something?
The 1860 was built on the 1851 frame, but the grip frame and grip are interchangeable. It has what looks like the early Dragoon grip.
Colt never made a production .44 cal 1851. That's an imagination from Pietta. I'm not a fan of that company. I always buy Uberti. Much more authentic reproductions.
There's a few cylinder presses available. Not the type to bring in the field. More for competition/bench shooting. The ROA has a really strong loading setup. I've never heard of one failing. I'd try and fix it for the field.