Black powder revolvers hold a special place in history and among firearms enthusiasts. Their classic design and the satisfying "bang" of black powder are undeniably appealing. However, the limitations of black powder – including cleaning requirements and the availability of ammunition – have led many shooters to explore conversion cylinders. This guide delves into the world of conversion cylinders for black powder revolvers, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and everything you need to know before making a purchase.
Understanding Conversion Cylinders
A conversion cylinder is a replacement cylinder for a black powder revolver designed to fire cartridges. Instead of loading loose powder, a ball, and a patch (or a conical bullet), you load pre-made cartridges directly into the cylinder. This significantly speeds up the reloading process and simplifies the shooting experience. Conversion cylinders are available for a wide range of black powder revolvers, including Colt Single Actions, Remington 1858s, and others. It's crucial to ensure you're buying a cylinder that specifically matches your revolver's make, model, and caliber.
Types of Conversion Cylinders
Conversion cylinders typically accommodate centerfire cartridges, although some rimfire options exist. Popular calibers for conversion cylinders include:
- .22 LR: A widely available and inexpensive option, offering a good balance between cost and accuracy.
- .38 Special: A more powerful and versatile option.
- .44 Special: A powerful round suitable for hunting or self-defense (with appropriate handgun selection).
- .45 Colt: A classic cartridge with considerable stopping power, often used in larger frame revolvers.
The choice of caliber depends on the original revolver's design and strength. Using a cartridge significantly more powerful than the revolver was designed for can lead to catastrophic failure.
Benefits of Using Conversion Cylinders
The advantages of using conversion cylinders are numerous:
- Faster Reloading: The most significant benefit is the speed and ease of reloading. Loading pre-made cartridges is considerably faster than measuring powder, seating a bullet, and inserting a patch.
- Reduced Cleaning: While cleaning is still necessary, the mess associated with black powder is significantly reduced. Cartridge cases catch most of the residue.
- Consistent Accuracy: Factory-made cartridges provide consistent powder charges, leading to more consistent shot placement and accuracy.
- Cost-Effective Ammunition (Potentially): While some cartridges are more expensive than black powder components, the ease of reloading and the reduced cleaning time may offset some of this cost over time.
- Modern Ammunition Availability: Finding black powder components can sometimes be challenging. Cartridges are readily available at most gun stores.
Drawbacks of Conversion Cylinders
Despite the numerous benefits, conversion cylinders also have some drawbacks:
- Cost: Conversion cylinders are not cheap. They represent a significant investment, often comparable to or exceeding the cost of the black powder revolver itself.
- Reduced Historical Accuracy: The use of a conversion cylinder removes the historical aspect of shooting a black powder revolver.
- Potential for Damage: As mentioned earlier, using an inappropriately powerful cartridge can damage the revolver. Always ensure the cartridge caliber is compatible with your conversion cylinder and revolver.
- Not Suitable for all Revolvers: Conversion cylinders are not available for every black powder revolver model.
- Accuracy Variations: While factory cartridges offer consistency, the accuracy of a conversion cylinder setup can vary based on the quality of the cylinder and the fit to the revolver.
Choosing the Right Conversion Cylinder
Selecting the right conversion cylinder requires careful consideration:
- Compatibility: Ensure the conversion cylinder is compatible with your specific black powder revolver's make, model, and caliber. Check manufacturer's specifications meticulously.
- Caliber Selection: Choose a cartridge caliber appropriate for your revolver's strength and intended use. Consult the manufacturer's specifications for the appropriate caliber range.
- Reputation of Manufacturer: Opt for a conversion cylinder from a reputable manufacturer known for quality and safety.
Safety Considerations
Using conversion cylinders requires observing the same safety precautions as with any firearm:
- Proper Handling: Always handle firearms safely, following all established gun safety rules.
- Ammunition Selection: Use only ammunition that is specifically designed for and compatible with the conversion cylinder and the revolver.
- Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect both the cylinder and the revolver for any signs of damage or wear.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified firearms expert before using conversion cylinders or any firearm.
Conclusion
Conversion cylinders can significantly enhance the shooting experience with black powder revolvers. The increased speed of reloading and reduced cleaning, combined with the readily available modern ammunition, are significant benefits. However, careful consideration must be given to compatibility, caliber selection, safety, and the potential costs involved. By understanding the advantages and drawbacks, and by following safety guidelines, you can confidently enjoy the best of both worlds – the charm of a black powder revolver combined with the convenience of modern cartridges.