Background on the Colt Navy
The scent of gunpowder still lingers in the imagination when one considers the Colt 1851 Navy revolver. A legend forged in the crucible of the American West and the Civil War, this iconic firearm represents more than just a weapon; it’s a tangible piece of history, a testament to innovation, and a symbol of a bygone era. While the Colt 1851 Navy is justly celebrated for its elegant lines and reliable performance, a fascinating variation exists, a testament to the enduring power of customization and refinement: the Bisley Hammer Colt 1851. This article delves into the unique aspects of this lesser-known but equally captivating firearm, exploring its origins, features, and enduring appeal.
The Colt 1851 Navy, introduced in the mid-nineteenth century, quickly became a favorite among soldiers, lawmen, and civilians alike. Samuel Colt’s vision, initially met with skepticism, revolutionized the firearms industry. He understood that to truly establish his company, he needed a firearm that was both reliable and visually appealing. His revolvers, with their rotating cylinders and self-contained cartridges, offered a significant advantage over muzzle-loading pistols.
The Colt 1851 Navy, chambered primarily in .36 caliber, represented a refinement of earlier designs. It was lighter and more streamlined than some of Colt’s earlier offerings, making it ideal for carrying on horseback or in a holster. The octagonal barrel, a distinctive feature of the Navy, provided a superior grip for a shooter, and contributed to the revolver’s balance. Moreover, the engraved cylinder, often depicting scenes of naval battles or historical events, added an element of artistic flair, transforming the weapon into a work of art.
The revolver’s mechanics were as innovative as its aesthetics. The percussion cap ignition system, where a small explosive cap was placed on the nipples of the cylinder, provided a reliable means of firing the weapon. The single-action mechanism, where the hammer had to be manually cocked before each shot, contributed to accuracy and precision. This design enabled the shooter to control the timing and force of each shot. The .36 caliber was also well-suited for general use.
The Colt Navy’s popularity soared during the Civil War. Both Union and Confederate forces adopted the revolver, recognizing its effectiveness in close-quarters combat. The Navy’s compact size and manageable recoil made it ideal for officers, cavalrymen, and anyone needing a reliable sidearm. Beyond the battlefield, the Colt 1851 Navy found its way into the hands of frontiersmen, lawmen, and outlaws, cementing its place as a quintessential firearm of the American West. The Colt 1851 Navy is a staple in the American story.
Origins of the Bisley Hammer: A New Angle
The term “Bisley Hammer” suggests a modification or redesign that may have originated from its application in shooting competitions. The goal was clear: to improve the ergonomics and the function of the handgun, enhancing its handling and potentially increasing shooting accuracy. The evolution of this specialized component, the Bisley hammer, is a compelling chapter in the history of firearm design.
The original hammers on the Colt 1851 Navy, while functional, weren’t always perfectly suited for extended use or rapid firing. Cocking the hammer often required a significant amount of force, and the shape of the hammer, while iconic, didn’t always provide the best purchase for the thumb.
The fundamental reason for the Bisley hammer was to alter the way the shooter interacted with the hammer, especially how the hammer was cocked. The new design focused on reshaping the hammer to provide a better grip. In the world of firearms, even slight adjustments can have a significant impact on the overall shooting experience.
This evolution wasn’t just a matter of aesthetics. It was a practical improvement, designed to make the revolver easier and faster to use. The improved ergonomics allowed shooters to cock the hammer more quickly and comfortably, which became a distinct advantage in matches.
Distinguishing Features of the Bisley Hammer Colt Navy
The most obvious distinction lies in the hammer itself. The Bisley hammer featured a distinctly different shape compared to the standard Navy hammer. The original hammer design was characterized by its curved profile, with a rounded spur. The hammer’s curve would generally have a somewhat small area, sometimes making it a bit difficult to cock rapidly.
The Bisley hammer, on the other hand, had a more elongated and wider profile. The spur of the hammer was generally lower and wider, providing a more secure grip for the thumb. The hammer’s shape changed how a shooter could interact with the revolver.
The integration of the Bisley hammer with the Colt 1851 Navy frame required a careful consideration of how the hammer’s design would interact with the rest of the gun. There were likely changes made to the hammer’s pivot point.
This meant a thoughtful approach when it came to manufacturing this variant of the Colt Navy, ensuring a perfect fit.
Practical Application and the Shooting Experience
The Bisley Hammer’s impact on the shooting experience was readily apparent. The most immediate advantage was the improved ease of cocking. The wider spur of the hammer provided a more positive grip, making it easier to cock the hammer with one hand, even with gloves on. This was a significant advantage for shooters, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The improved ergonomics also contributed to greater comfort, especially during extended shooting sessions. The standard hammers often required more force and awkward hand positioning, whereas the Bisley hammer made the task of cocking the hammer feel more natural.
The Bisley Hammer 1851 also played a significant role in target shooting. The improved cocking action helped the shooter to better maintain control.
There were some differences, like a slightly increased weight or a minor shift in balance, but this was mostly negligible. The enhanced handling and the ability to cock the hammer rapidly was a significant advantage.
Appreciating the Bisley Hammer in the Realm of Collectors
For collectors, the Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 is a prized piece. Their rarity and historical context make them a valuable addition to any firearms collection.
The value is affected by several factors, including the condition of the revolver, the originality of its parts, and the historical significance. Complete, original examples, especially those in excellent condition, can fetch substantial prices.
Identifying an authentic Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 requires careful inspection. Collectors are advised to examine the hammer itself, checking its dimensions and shape against known examples.
The original Bisley hammers should exhibit a consistent level of craftsmanship and should be free of modifications. Further, collectors should assess the overall condition of the revolver, including the finish on the metal parts, the condition of the grips, and the functionality of the mechanism.
Preservation is critical for these historical firearms. Collectors should clean and lubricate their revolvers to prevent rust and degradation. Proper storage is another crucial aspect, as it protects these firearms from damage. The proper handling of a Bisley Hammer 1851 will ensure it’s ready to be admired and preserved.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Comparing the Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 with other historical Colt revolvers illustrates its uniqueness. The Colt 1860 Army, for example, a .44-caliber revolver, was another popular choice during the Civil War, favored for its more powerful ammunition. While the Army had its unique features, the Bisley Hammer’s focus was to alter ergonomics and functionality. The Colt Paterson was the first commercially successful revolving cylinder firearm. However, the Bisley Hammer was focused on improving aspects related to shooting rather than being innovative.
Beyond Colt, modern manufacturers have produced revolvers with improved hammer designs. These advancements include wider hammers. While not direct replicas of the Bisley Hammer, these designs reflect a similar focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Concluding Thoughts
The Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 stands as a fascinating example of innovation and the evolution of firearm design. The Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 is a symbol of a time when firearms were constantly being improved, whether to win shooting competitions, or simply to improve the shooter experience.
This revolver represents the perfect integration of the Bisley hammer into the already popular Colt Navy design. The Bisley Hammer Colt 1851 holds a lasting place in history, a symbol of craftsmanship, engineering and the enduring spirit of innovation.
