Yep, real ivory. They are unturned and I want to keep them that way. I don't trust myself and I sure don't trust other folks not to cock em (when I bring out to show off). I managed not to turn em for a long while but I was so tempted. I'd love to shoot em. But, like I said, I do bring em out once in a while to show friends and it's easier just to tie em so I don't have to watch em like a hawk.
I do shoot the .44-40. I bought it just for that reason. I love it.