F.lli Pietta 1851 Navy .36 Cal Brass-Frame Percussion Revolver, Factory Engraved for Dixie Gun Works (1988)
This 1988 F.lli Pietta reproduction of the Colt 1851 Navy pairs classic lines with factory scroll engraving and a polished brass frame that mirrors Confederate-era copies. Distributed by Dixie Gun Works, it features a 7.5-inch octagonal barrel with gold-tone accents, a blued steel cylinder etched with the traditional naval-battle scene, and reliable single-action operation for six rounds of .36 caliber cap-and-ball.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver retains solid mechanical integrity. Scattered scratches, small blemishes, and limited areas of light rust and pitting are visible on metal surfaces, but none affect function.
What’s Included
- F.lli Pietta Model 1851 Navy .36 caliber brass-frame engraved percussion revolver
The polished brass frame catches the light and faithfully reflects mid-19th-century Confederate styling cues. Factory scroll engraving on the frame and recoil shield adds period-correct detail, while gold-tone borders on the barrel flats provide subtle contrast against the deep blue finish.
The cylinder displays Pietta’s crisp rendition of the naval-battle scene, a hallmark of the original Colt design. Matched with Gardone proof marks and a DIXIE GUN WORKS barrel roll mark, the revolver’s markings confirm its Italian manufacture and U.S. distribution lineage.
A 7.5-inch carbon-steel octagonal barrel balances the piece nicely and delivers classic sight alignment: a cone-style brass front sight pairs with the V-notch cut into the hammer nose. The external hammer, single-action lockwork, and one-piece varnished walnut grip maintain historical authenticity while offering dependable operation for modern black-powder enthusiasts.
Compatible with No. 10 percussion caps and .36 caliber round balls or conical bullets, this six-shot revolver remains ready for range use or display in a Civil War or Old West collection.