Taylors and Company 1851 Open-Top Revolver — .45 Colt, 5.50″
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Taylors and Company 1851 Open-Top Revolver is a faithful modern reproduction of a transitional cartridge-era single-action chambered in .45 Colt. This revolver bridges the gap between percussion cap originals and modern cartridge revolvers with authentic period styling and construction. It’s designed for historical shooters, collectors, and enthusiasts who value traditional mechanics over modern convenience.
What is the Taylors and Company 1851 Open-Top Revolver used for?
This revolver is primarily for historical shooting, collection display, and controlled-range use with traditional single-action mechanics. It's suited for Cowboy Action Shooting in appropriate categories, black powder cartridge loading, and as a tangible history piece. It is not intended for defensive carry or rapid-fire scenarios due to its fixed sights and single-action-only operation.
How does the Taylors and Company 1851 Open-Top compare to a modern single-action like a Ruger New Vaquero?
The Taylors 1851 is historically accurate but mechanically limited, while the Ruger New Vaquero is a modernized robust platform, which is better for high-volume shooting. The 1851 uses a period-correct open-top frame without a top strap, weighs approximately 38 ounces, and has fixed sights, whereas the New Vaquero features a stronger solid-frame design with adjustable sights and a transfer bar safety. For a modern, durable single-action workhorse, consider options like our Stevens 334 bolt-action rifles for more reliable repetitive use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver has an overall length of 11.03 inches, a barrel length of 5.50 inches, and weighs approximately 38 ounces (1077 grams). These dimensions provide a classic balance point just forward of the trigger guard, typical of Navy-style grips and 19th-century revolver design. The walnut grip measures roughly 4.25 inches in circumference at its widest point, offering a secure but period-correct hold.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for anyone seeking a defensive firearm, a beginner’s first handgun, or a platform for mounting optics. The single-action mechanism, fixed sights, and lack of modern safety features make it unsuitable for defensive scenarios or inexperienced shooters. Its .45 Colt chambering also produces significant recoil compared to milder calibers, demanding proper technique.
What's in the box?
The revolver ships with the firearm only, no accessories, which is standard for historical reproductions at this price point. You receive the revolver, and it is your responsibility to source period-correct leather, loading tools, and appropriate .45 Colt ammunition, which typically costs about $0.80 to $1.20 per round for factory loads. Unlike some modern sporting options, like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun, there are no included choke tubes or cases.
Is the Taylors and Company 1851 Open-Top Revolver worth it at $624.99?
At $624.99, the revolver is fairly priced for a historically accurate, shootable reproduction with color case-hardening and walnut grips, but it demands investment in accessories and specialized ammo. Its value lies entirely in its authenticity; for the same budget, a modern used Ruger Blackhawk would offer greater durability and versatility. If historical fidelity is your primary goal, this is a competent entry, but the true cost includes leather, tools, and possibly black powder cartridge reloading equipment.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Authentic color case-hardened frame and blued barrel — correct 19th-century finish process.
- 5.50-inch barrel provides a classic 11.03-inch overall length for traditional holster fit.
- Weighs approximately 38 oz (1077g) — proper heft for a steel-frame .45 Colt.
- Period-correct six-round engraved cylinder — no anachronistic modern markings.
- Walnut Navy grip with brass backstrap — historically accurate materials and profile.
Trade-offs
- Fixed blade front and rear sights — zero adjustment requires filing or replacement.
- No transfer bar or modern safety — hammer must rest on empty chamber for carry.
- Open-top frame design — inherently less rigid than a top-strap design like a Ruger.
- No included accessories — requires separate purchase of loading tools and leather.
Key attributes
| upc | 839665009789 |
| manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
| manufacturer part number | 550721 |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 5.50" |
| caliber/gauge | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| capacity | 6 |
| product type | Revolver |
| sights | Blade Front/Fixed Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the 1851 Open-Top compatible with modern .45 Colt self-defense ammo?
- No, I do not recommend using modern high-pressure defensive ammunition in this reproduction. The frame and metallurgy are designed for period-appropriate pressures, roughly equivalent to SAAMI spec for standard-pressure .45 Colt (around 14,000 PSI). Stick to Cowboy Action loads or equivalent from manufacturers like Black Hills or Winchester.
- Does this revolver fit standard 1851 Navy holsters?
- Yes, it will fit most quality reproduction holsters designed for the 1851 Navy percussion revolver, given the similar external dimensions. The 5.50-inch barrel length and overall profile of 11.03 inches are correct for the period. I recommend leather from makers like El Paso Saddlery or Missouri Boot & Shoe Co. for proper fit.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Ironclad Armory ships within 2 business days once your FFL's information is verified. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 business days continental US. All firearms require signature confirmation upon delivery at your chosen licensed dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my collection goals?
- No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL, barring a legitimate manufacturing defect. Federal law prohibits the return of transferred firearms for buyer's remorse. Inspect the firearm thoroughly with your FFL before completing Form 4473 and taking possession.
- Does this work with aftermarket cylinder loading gates?
- The loading gate is integral to the frame; replacement is a gunsmithing task requiring fitting. Taylors and Company may offer service parts, but retrofitting is not a simple drop-in procedure and may cost $75-$150 in labor. The factory gate is functional but requires a firm thumb push to open.