The Remington 1858 is a misnamed icon that defined American Civil War era firepower

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Often called the Model 1858 due to patent markings, this legendary percussion revolver did not actually enter mass production until 1861. Renowned for its robust solid-frame design and innovative safety features, it became a primary sidearm for the Union Army and a trusted companion for figures like Buffalo Bill Cody.

The Remington revolver series, manufactured by Eliphalet Remington & Sons in Ilion, New York, is frequently misidentified by the 1858 date stamped on its barrels. This marking refers to the Fordyce Beals patent, but large-scale production only commenced in 1861. The firearm was initially a secondary choice for the Union Army, but its importance surged following the 1864 Colt factory fire, which disrupted the supply of competing Colt revolvers. Samuel Remington famously offered his revolvers to the government for $15 each, significantly undercutting the price of Colt's .44-caliber models.

Technically, the Remington distinguished itself through a solid-frame 'topstrap' design, which provided superior durability and resistance to frame stretching compared to open-top alternatives. While the integrated barrel and receiver made cleaning more difficult, the internal lockwork was notably simpler. A significant innovation introduced in 1863 was the inclusion of 'safety slots' milled between the cylinder chambers. These allowed the hammer to rest securely between chambers, preventing accidental discharges—a critical safety feature that most 19th-century designs lacked.

The platform’s versatility was further demonstrated by its transition to metallic cartridges. In 1868, Remington began offering factory conversions, paying royalties to Smith & Wesson for the use of bored-through cylinder technology. These conversions were the first large-caliber cartridge revolvers on the market, arriving nearly two years before Smith & Wesson's own .44 American. The design's enduring legacy is reflected in its continued popularity among reenactors and shooters today, though original specimens are now considered too delicate for regular use.

The cultural impact of the firearm is perhaps best exemplified by the New Model Army .44 used by William F. 'Buffalo Bill' Cody. Cody carried the pistol, serial number 73,293, for over four decades, famously noting that it never failed him. In 2012, this specific piece sold at auction for $239,000, cementing its status as a significant historical artifact of the American West.

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