Remington Model 1858

About the Remington Model 1858

The Remington Model 1858 is an American .44 caliber cap-and-ball percussion revolver designed by Fordyce Beals and manufactured by E. Remington & Sons of Ilion, New York. Distinguished from its Colt rivals by a solid frame with an integral top strap, it offered greater strength and allowed the cylinder to be swapped out quickly for reloading. Carried widely by Union and Confederate troops during the American Civil War, the six-shot single-action revolver became one of the most respected sidearms of its era.

When a fire crippled the Colt factory in February 1864, the U.S. Ordnance Department turned heavily to Remington, and the 1858's solid-frame robustness earned it a reputation as 'the revolver that would not die.'

Remington Model 1858 specifications

Commonly called the Model 1858 after the September 14, 1858 patent date stamped on the cylinder, though production began in 1861. The improved 'New Model Army' appeared in 1863. Cartridge-conversion cylinders later allowed metallic .46 rimfire and .45 Colt ammunition.