Hi, as most are aware, Colt only made the 1851 Navy as a .36 caliber revolver. However, a replica maker also offers the 1851 revolver as a .44 caliber revolver. Most BP revolver shooters shun the .44 1851 like the Black Plague. I have a slightly different opinion. If Colt had had the metallurgy of today, I am sure he would have also offered an 1851 frame at .44 caliber.
The Pietta .44 caliber 1851 makes for a nice platform to shoot either .44 C&B or .45 conversion cylinders. More compact than the 1860 it offers a very optimal large caliber revolver IMO.
Period correct sometimes makes for narrow views. Where are you with the Pietta .44 caliber 1851?
Regards,
Richard