My conversion started life as a Pietta 1860 Army, civilian version. I wanted the civilian because I didn't want the 4th screws on the frame for the stock. They're unsightly to me, not to mention in the way.
I used a Kirst gated conversion, in .45 Colt. It went on pretty easily, other than having to sand the cylinder face down a couple thousandths, so the cylinder would rotate properly. I just used some 400 sandpaper and a piece of glass. It didn't take much to make it work perfectly. I then just used BC Super Blue to touch up the cylinder face. This gun has had well over 1000 rounds through it now, with no trouble whatsoever. Most of those rounds have been in 80-120 round sessions. This pistol is fun to shoot!
As you can see, the barrel has been shortened to 4 1/2" which is just in front of the ejector rod housing. It has also been crowned. I know it's a little short for some folks taste, but it is perfect for my use.
The grips are my own manufacture and are from resin, then hand carved to look jigged.
It's a fun gun and doesn't look like anyone else's.
