I stand by my statement that the Pietta 1862 is very close to a short barrel 1861 Colt.
Regards,
Richard
True statement, stick to it. But, it's closer than "very close". Except for the shortened barrel and loading lever it's the same gun. In terms of Pietta models, their 62 IS a shortened 61 without any other difference.
Pietta has sold both brass and steel trigger guards and back straps on their 1861s. I have only seen their 1862 with the brass strap and guard.
My one Pietta '61 has the brass strap and guard with an unhistorical 8" barrel. Conclusion: Go Uberti, those are historically correct for both 61 and 62.
[From looking at photos of original M 1861's it seems that Colt first made them with brass straps and guards and then went to steel for the remainder of that short production cycle, pre-fire. Is that correct?]