1860: Cut/Not Cut, Steel/Brass Backstrap?

[AdmiralB]

I've decided I want an Uberti 1860 Army. Preferably the civilian version, not cut for the stock.

Problem is, nobody has them. Well, almost nobody - I did find one, but it's the brass-backstrap version. I'd prefer steel.

I could buy that, and swap the backstraps...except nobody has the backstrap as a part, either (Taylor's says they've had them on order...since 2005).

Further, also according to Taylor's, the civilian versions are no longer on Uberti's North American price list - so there won't be any more, for the forseeable future at least.

So - I can either get the brass-strap version, or wait for a mil version.

My objection to the mil version is...it sure looks like the locating screwheads are exactly where one's trigger finger (and maybe thumb) would want to rest.


Thoughts?

 

[RyanM]

http://www.cimarron-firearms.com/BlkPowder/CA047-048-60ArmyCiv.htm#

Looks like Cimarron offers 1860s with either brass or steel backstrap/trigger guard for the civilian, brass only for military. Although apparently you lose the case hardened frame. Not sure. The description is kind of vague. The parts for blued steel grip frames must exist, though, since the conversions are available with steel instead of brass, with a case-hardened frame still.

 

[K.A.T.]

You won't even know the screws are there as far as shooting the gun. Your trigger finger will kinda curve around the screw. Your thumb will be half to three quarter of an inch under the screw on the other side. If you do hold your thumb up to the level of the screw it will come off the grip at a 45* angle and miss the screw easily. If you don't like the looks of the screws, don't buy it.

 

[AdmiralB]

Lots of places still list the civilian version, but nobody has it in stock.

I was basing the finger/screw interference theory on a post here, where the shooter removed those screws. Looks don't matter to me at all.

I've never handled an 1860 that had them; the only replicas around here are Piettas, which are three-screw.

 

[Sagetown]

Hey AdmiralB;
I agree with RyanM. I've been lookin' at Cimarron's, and you'll probably have to call them to find out for sure about the Case Hardened Frames.

 

[AdmiralB]

I've talked to Texas Jack's (Cimarron retail)...they said that they place orders, but Uberti pretty much sends them whatever they feel like sending - the shipments don't even match the manifests, let alone the orders.

Buffalo shows the civ/steel (CA047), and it is cased, but they're out.

 

[J.T. Gerrity]

Here is a steel backstrap for the 1860 Army from Dixie Gun Works. Since it fits originals, it will most likely fit your Uberti.

I've never had a problem with the screws on my 1860. They in no way interfere with handling or shooting; frankly, most of the time I'm not even aware they're there. If you've never handled an 1860 with them, I guess you might wonder about it, but, really, there's no need to worry. To be concerned with them is, IMO, making a mountain out of a mole hill. Get your Uberti and start making smoke!!

 

[Gunruner]

I have a big hand and own 2 1860's with the shoulder stock screws. I've never had any contact with the screws during shooting that I can remember IN 15 YEARS shooting them. I suppose you'd have to have a very fat hand or strange grip on the gun? I'd go for what's available now and have fun...........Mike

 

[AdmiralB]

Thanks, gents. I'll take my chances with the screws. I have fairly wide hands but not terribly long fingers.

FWIW Uberti lists a different part number for the civ backstrap versus the standard...I'm not terribly interested in doing fitting.

 

[mykeal]

The reason Uberti's part numbers are different is the divot, or cutout, for the stock on the bottom of the military backstrap. Dimensionally they are identical and will fit either frame. No fitting would be necessary.

However, I think you've made the right decision. The screws will not be an issue.

 

[BigG]

I don't think the stock mounting screws would get in your way. Best way is to try one and see before you decide.

 

[JayC]

vtigunparts.com

www.vtigunparts.com also seems to offer both a brass and steel backstrap. They show two, with different part numbers, and the second one specifies brass. I'm guessing that the other is steel. I don't know how finished it might be, but it lists for $50. You'd hope the cost difference over Dixie would mean the finish is more complete.

 

[AdmiralB]

VTI doesn't directly list the civ backstrap on the 1860 parts diagram - it's part number 48007 - but it does appear if you search on it specifically. However, they're out of it too.

I did manage to find a civilian model (allegedly) in-stock at a dealer, though, so I went ahead and ordered it. If it falls through I'll take a mil version.

Thanks to all for the advice!