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STANDARD PRODUCTION MODEL

NOTE: Longer barrels will bring a premium over the 3.5- or 4.5-inch length.

SECTION III

COLT’S REVOLVERS &THE METALLIC CARTRIDGES

METALLIC CARTRIDGE CONVERSIONS

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So from the waning of the percussion era until 1872 Colt took in non-firearm manufacturing business (even manufacturing sewing machines) and worked feverishly on new firearm designs. In the four years between the end of the Civil War and 1869, when it became clear that breechloading cartridges were the future and would soon replace all of their designs, Colt struggled with diminishing sales of its muzzleloading guns.

Between 1869 and 1972, Colt produced a number of models that are variously considered “conversions.” These weapons were Colt percussion revolvers that were reworked to accommodate metallic cartridges. None can be considered entirely successful.

Model 1851 Navy Thuer Conversion.

Model 1860 Army Thuer Conversion.

THUER CONVERSION

Although quite simplistic and not commercially successful, the Thuer Conversion (named after gunsmith and patent holder F. Alexander Thuer) was brought out in 1869 and remained in the line until 1872 for a total of about 5,000 guns. It was the strongest attempt by Colt to circumvent former employee Rollin White’s patent (which had been sold to Smith & Wesson) and to convert remaining Colt percussion revolvers to the new metallic cartridge system. This conversion was designed around the proprietary, tapered Thuer cartridge and consisted of a ring that replaced the back part of the cylinder, which had been milled off. The ring is stamped “PAT. SEP. / 15. 1868.” The ejection position is marked with the letter “E.” These conversions have rebounding firing pins and were milled to allow loading from the front of the revolver cylinder. All Thuer Conversions were six-shot revolvers. This conversion was undertaken on the six different models listed; and all other specifications, finishes, markings, etc., not directly affected by the conversion would be the same as previously described. From a collectible and investment standpoint, the Thuer Conversion is very desirable. About 5,000 revolvers were altered in the years 1869 to 1870. Competent appraisal should be secured if acquisition is contemplated.