Uberti vs. Pietta new production -- worth extra $$?

[ArmedBear]

If you want the best inherent accuracy, skip any Colt design. The rear sights are on the hammer and the barrels are pinned on.

Long-term durability counts for a lot, though. Less-expensive Italian guns over the years have been known for soft internals. I've got at least one example. Still looks nice; it'll be a wallhanger I guess.

 

[Old Fuff]

I think that Pietta makes the better Remington New Model Army - at least I'd say that about one I got from EMF. It cost more then one from Cabelas, but more attention was paid to fitting the lockwork.

On the other hand I'd give Uberti extra points for their line of Colt's. In particular, the contour of the backstrap, trigger guard and stocks is closer to the originals, and they are slightly better finished - but I don't know if "slightly" better cosmetics justifies the difference in price.

Speaking of price, if you plan to buy one of these revolvers it would be best to do it now. With the value of our dollar dropping like a rock in a pond, the cost will be going up, and perhaps sharply so.

For the moment, both makers are offering quality guns, and current prices represent exceptional values.

 

[ArmedBear]

Interesting.

The Uberti 1858 I bought (one of the remaining Millenium Finish guns on clearance, before some others actually raised the price of the cheaper finish) is a bit off in a few ways, including the barrel which is tweaked over to the left a bit so it's flush with the frame on the left side, and the sight/notch, which were cut a bit right of center. The sight had to be pounded over quite a bit to make it shoot to POA.

However, the trigger is dreamy and it shoots great little groups. I sighted it in, and 4 of the rounds went through the same jagged hole at 10 yards. The other two were just above the hole; elevation with the original-style sights is not all that precise.

I feel like I got what I wanted, for $179: a great shooter that I won't regret using, even if it does get a scratch or a bit of rust here and there.

 

[Omnivore]

If you want the best inherent accuracy, skip any Colt design. The rear sights are on the hammer and the barrels are pinned on.

Technically valid, but a few weeks ago, using a Traditions Pietta '51 Navy .44-- from a blister pack with starter's kit ($200.00 total a couple years ago):

25 yards, six consecutive shots in 2 & 5/8", standing, unsupported, two-hand hold. 28 grains Goex FFF, .454" ball and lots of Bore Butter.

Granted, I had replaced the front sight with a taller one, and then Dremeled the hammer notch to get the windage right, but that had nothing to do with accuracy-- just POI. It's otherwise stock and has fired hundreds of rounds. All rounds hit in the upper portion of the black with a bulls-eye hold on the NRA 25 yd. slow-fire pistol target #B16.

With all the use it's gotten, I'm sure the barrel wedge has fit itself nicely to the barrel and arbor, and that the barrel bore is lapped in from regular wear.

Just got a Pietta '58 on sale at Cabelas. A bit rough in places compared to a 600-dollar Smith, but it's a lot like the '51 was when new. It locks up very tight and in line with the bore. The cylinder gap is almost too small (the '51 has a lot of gap). The crown has noticeable, but very minor burring inside-- stuff like that. The finish on the top strap shows definite signs of repair at the factory. In some minor sense I consider these project guns.

 

[berkmberk1]

Traditions, Pietta 1851

I got mine from the Possibles shop and I like it. Shoots great! Dead on line and just a few inchies high at 25 yds. $75 difference can buy a good deal of powder, ball, or caps! Ubertis probaly are finished better, but is it going to be shot or hung on the wall? Being as inexpensive as it was, the Pietta gives me lattitude to play and "tweak" with things I wouldn't dream of doing with an expensive gun.

 

[TheWall]

Dixie Gun Works 1851 Navy Colt

I just picked up an 1851 Navy Colt (.36 caliber) from Dixie Gun Works. It's a steel frame Pietta and I got it on sale for $185. I think the sale is still going on.

It's the first pistol I have ever bought, so I have nothing to compare it to. But just handling the gun everything seems in real good working order.

I am waiting to get some FFFG Goex I ordered from Maine Powder House (all I have is FFG for my Enfield rifle and Hawken). I plan on taking it out to the range later this week. Will report back when I do.

 

[ArmedBear]

How is the trigger, TheWall?

 

[TheWall]

1851 Dixie Colt Navy

"How is the trigger, TheWall?"

The pull is real nice -- for me it is just right. Again, I have not taken it out to the range yet. Work and family have prevented me from getting out there. I am hoping to have a few hours next week. I will report back.

But, it feels real nice all around.