Non-Military Pistol in Use During Civil War
Question
What type of utility/general use pistol/revolver would a farmer or homeowner in the Southeast U.S. typically have owned in the 10-15 years prior to the civil war? (brand, caliber). Thank you!
Answer
The 1836 Colt Patterson revolver was popular (usually 5-shot, but the patent included 5 and 6 shot versions). It was first in cal .28, and then a year later also available in cal .36.
The Colt Walker was available in 1847, and was a six-shot revolver in cal .44
Many people also owned various single shot muzzle loading handguns, which could be flintlock, percussion cap, or other types of ignition.
Hope this helps!
Dave
Essex 12 gauge
Iver Johnson 5 shot revolver