Different Grips?

[rodwha]

So I must admit upfront I've not been much of a fan of the .36 as I believe bigger is better, especially with the same size frame. But I hear the '51 Colt Navy is a must to own, that it damn near points itself. I've also read that the creeping loading lever system of the '61 was an improvement. But does it have the same "self pointing" grip?

I also must admit that I'm a sucker for the older look that some might say is blocky. Just looks better to me.

[Hawg]

The navy grips are the same and are even the same on the 73's..

[rodwha]

Would you recommend one over the other, and if so why?

I've heard the rack and pinion gear legs are fragile and can break. But that was by just one person.

[Hawg]

I haven't heard that. I know the 60 army has a better feel when loading than the 51 does but my preference with the .36 is the 51, never had a 61.

[rodwha]

What draws you to the '51 over the '61?

[Hawg]

Octagonal barrel. Always been a sucker for them.

[rodwha]

I really like how Colt made the octagon barrel work so nicely. The streamlined models are just OK. I've been torn on the Police and Pocket Navy as I don't care as much for the scrolled cylinders quite so much.

[Hawg]

If you're going to get pocket models get Uberti. They're at least on the right size frame.

[rodwha]

Being proper is right for me. I'm not interested in the Pietta model and don't care much for them misrepresenting it.

[Hawg]

1

[StrawHat]

I like the 1861 because it seems to be a bit quicker handling than the 51s.  I attribute this to the round barrel.  On the scale, they both weigh the same but in the hand, the 61 seems more responsive.  And when I started shooting C&B revolves the first ones I was given were 1861s.  I think I gave $75 for the pair, which was abit high for the times but they were complete and original.  Later sold them to a fellow who said I should not be shooting them.  Used the $$ to buy a couple of 61s from Uberti.  In my hands, they were about the same. 

As far as the Pietta, it is a good copy of a custom barreled 1861 but not a Pocket Police revolver.

For a first Colt, I would recommend either the 51 or 61 as the Pocket revolvers are a lot more fun to get to work properly.  Learn on the larger frame and go to the smaller one later.

Kevin

[Captainkirk]

Never heard of them breaking either. They can get sorta persnickety if you drop them in sand, but no problemo if you just dunk it in a creek and swish it around a bit.