convert remington 1858 new model army to .45 ACP?

[Andrew Wyatt]

I have a repro remington new model army .44, and I hardly ever shoot it because it's so time consuming. the avalable conversions for .45 colt are not numerous and are expensive. the kirst converter only holds five rounds and the rounds are unevenly spaced, with an empty spot for the hammer to rest on. the converter can be loaded and unloaded like any other single action revolver if you get the backplate with loading gate. the R&D converter is a two piece, six round cylinder that replaces the standard cylinder. you have to remove it to reload. I have a full machine shop i can use, and can make my own cylinder, if need be.

WOuld .45 ACP or .45 colt standard loadings (defense ammo as opposed to cowboy loads) be safe to fire in a new model army with a conversion cylinder made out of the proper steel?

 

[Tom C.]

I suspect the best way to determine limits on the cylinder strength is to call the manufacturor. A .45 ACP cylinder is probably good for all .45 ACP non +P loads. .45 Colt is probably best kept to cowboy loads.
If you have the capability to make your own cylinder, you could make it from 4130, 4340, 17-4PH or something else appropriate and raise the limit somewhat. You are still limited by the frame.

 

[MrAcheson]

Kirst made a .45acp cylinder for a long while. I think they discontinued it recently. So yes you can do it.

 

[gvass]

"I suspect the best way to determine limits on the cylinder strength is to call the manufacturor"

My greatest concern is the weakness of the frame, definiately not for "nitro".

.45 Colt with BP load is OK, but on the long run, the .45 ACP will kill the toy.

 

[Andrew Wyatt]

I'm not so sure about that.


the kirst konvertor in both calibers is rated for anything under 1000 fps.


standard pressure .45 ACP ammo goes 850.

my guns are not toys.

 

[gvass]

"the kirst konvertor in both calibers is rated for anything under 1000 fps."

The Vmax at the muzzle and the pressure curve of the different powders are two thing.
The later destruct the gun.

Have you ever seen the difference between the gas-pressure - time curve of the BP and the NC?
It is drastic.


"my guns are not toys."

My single action c'n'b guns are TOYS in the best meaning of this word.

There are other guns in my little inventory for serious jobs.