The 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder represents a fascinating chapter in firearms history. This accessory transformed a ubiquitous pocket pistol into a more versatile and powerful weapon, reflecting the technological advancements and shifting battlefield needs of the American Civil War era. Understanding its history, features, and current collector's value requires a detailed look into its design, usage, and place within the larger context of 19th-century firearms.
The Remington 1858 Pocket Revolver: A Foundation for Change
Before exploring the conversion cylinder itself, it's crucial to understand its base: the Remington 1858 Pocket Revolver. This .22 Short black powder revolver, known for its compact size and relatively simple design, was incredibly popular. Its widespread availability made it a common sidearm for both military and civilian use. However, its limited power compared to larger caliber revolvers proved to be a significant drawback in combat situations. The introduction of the 1863 conversion cylinder directly addressed this issue.
The Limitations of the .22 Short
The .22 Short cartridge, while convenient and relatively easy to carry, lacked the stopping power necessary for effective combat. This was a significant factor in the development of the conversion cylinder. The small bullet's low velocity and relatively light weight meant it often failed to deliver the necessary knock-down power, especially at longer ranges.
The 1863 Conversion Cylinder: Bridging the Caliber Gap
The 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder ingeniously addressed the limitations of the .22 Short. This additional cylinder allowed owners to convert their Remington 1858 Pocket Revolvers to fire the more powerful .31 caliber rimfire cartridges. The .31 caliber round offered significantly improved stopping power and effective range compared to the original .22 Short.
Mechanical Features and Functionality
The conversion cylinder was a simple yet effective design. It typically fit seamlessly into the existing Remington 1858 revolver frame, requiring only the removal of the original cylinder and the insertion of the conversion cylinder. This straightforward swap allowed for quick changes between calibers depending on the situation's needs.
- Caliber Change: The most significant feature was its ability to change the caliber from .22 Short to .31 rimfire.
- Material: Most conversion cylinders were made of steel, ensuring durability and reliability.
- Manufacturing Marks: Many conversion cylinders bore maker's marks, although these can be difficult to decipher and often require expert appraisal.
Impact and Significance on the Civil War
The 1863 conversion cylinder played a role in the American Civil War, although its impact was less dramatic than larger-caliber firearms. Its increased stopping power made it slightly more effective for self-defense and close-quarters combat than its smaller-caliber counterpart. The conversion cylinder's availability made the Remington 1858 Pocket Revolver more adaptable, increasing its overall usefulness.
Case Study: A Soldier's Perspective
While precise battlefield accounts attributing victories or defeats specifically to the conversion cylinder are scarce, anecdotal evidence suggests that soldiers appreciated the increased power this upgrade provided. For example, a letter from a Union soldier might mention the added reliability of the .31 caliber round during skirmishes or patrol duties. This evidence, though limited, underscores the practical improvements the conversion cylinder offered.
Collectibility and Value of the 1863 Conversion Cylinder
Today, the 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder is a highly sought-after collectible. Its historical significance, combined with its rarity and condition, greatly impacts its value.
Factors Affecting Value
Several factors influence the value of a 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder:
- Condition: The condition of the cylinder is paramount. Well-preserved cylinders with minimal wear and original markings command significantly higher prices.
- Maker's Marks: Identifiable maker's marks significantly increase value, as they provide provenance and allow for better identification.
- Rarity: Certain makers produced fewer conversion cylinders than others, making them more valuable.
- Completeness: A complete cylinder, showing no damage or missing parts, is much more valuable than a partially damaged one.
Current Market Value
The value of a 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder varies considerably depending on the factors mentioned above. However, in excellent condition, a well-documented cylinder can fetch several hundred dollars, sometimes reaching into the thousands of dollars for exceptionally rare examples. Appraisals from reputable firearms experts are recommended for accurate valuations.
Conclusion: A Piece of American History
The 1863 Pocket Remington Conversion Cylinder stands as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of 19th-century firearm technology. It's more than just a simple accessory; it's a piece of history that reflects the evolving needs of both the military and civilian populations. For collectors and enthusiasts, its historical significance and inherent rarity make it a coveted and valuable addition to any firearms collection. Researching specific makers and markings can yield surprising discoveries about its unique history.