[Spider]

Were original Remington New Model Army's ever finished with a case hardened frame?  I noticed that Uberti sells a model with fire blue barrel and loading lever with case hardened frame.  Looks pretty, but is it authentic?  Just want to know...

 

[James Gates]

Spider...Yes, the 1858,1858 Trasition, and "New Model" Remington .44's had a surface case on the loading lever and hammer. Many years ago I had a pair in excellent condition. They shot well, but high as the originals were battle sighted. The case did not hold up well and many originals today show very little. The difference between the models: The 1858...The cylider pin could be with drawn in a slot while the loading lever was still up and locked. The front sight was a german silver cone. The Transition: the pin could not be withdrawn with the loading lever up and still had the silver cone front sight. The New Model Army: new steel pin front sight. This is the most common variation and the Uberti copy.
Best Regards, James