Question on new gun

[johnnyh]

I will try not to ask to many questions, but here goes.

I just tonight opened the box from Cabelas to reveal my 1851 Navy Colt .44. I know that Gatofeo had quite a bit of info going on the threads, but I still have not had a chance to read them all. I will throw is out to ya all right now.

Pietta's owners manual states that the ball dia. for the .44 is .454, Cabela's owners manual states it is .451....same thing???

Pietta states grains mid-max is 12-15, Cabelas states 35. it is a brass frame one, I know Gatofeo states that that one is not the best, but to late...that is what I got.

Any help on this and any other info for the "newbie" would be much appreciated.

 

[the-ghost]

well while you can use a .451 ball. i'd go with the .454 and do in my .44's. with the brass frame you prolly don't want to load more than 20 or 22 grains of powder. it will handle heavier loads for a time but the frame will stretch if you keep it up.

 

[BHP FAN]

Ghost got it right in one!The reason you want the .454 is that it makes a good seal.If your ball cuts a nice clean washer then you''ll burn your powder more efficiently,and reduce your chance of chain fires [multiple discharges] if you buy some wonder wads instead of smearing lube over the top of each chamber,you'll not only be cutting down on the mess,youll be further insuring against a chain fire.

 

[Gaucho Gringo]

I have the same gun only in a steel frame. It is color case hardened and has black grips. I bought it from the Possibles Shop, new about 6-7 months ago for $165.00. I shoot .454 round balls in it and my 1858 Remington. As far as loads I would not shoot any more than 25 gr black powder or equivalent in your gun for a maximum load. I would keep it down to 20-22 gr for most of your shooting. Have fun and be safe.