Open Top replacement barrels

[Capt. Augustus]

I have a brace of 1872 Uberti Open Tops with the 7 1/2 barrels.  I know VTI sells other length barrels, can anyone who has replaced barrels give me an idea of what would be involved in changing to a different length.  Also, do the replacement barrels come with the front sight installed?

[Flint]

I replaced and fitted different length and different caliber barrrels on my Opentops.  I had to adjust the hole a bit on a few to accept the cylinder arbor.  A slotted dowel wrapped with fine wet-or-dry paper did it, only a hair required.  I picked the best fit on each for each frame.   It is best, also to buy spare wedges and wedge screws from VTIgunparts, and set up each barrel with its own wedge and screw.

I bought ejector rods, housings, springs and screws for most, but they could be timeshared for economic reasons.

When changing calibers, the cylinder headspace must be adjusted FIRST.  After that is set by adjusting the height of the ratchet teeth, then the endshake can be set at the gas ring.

[Capt. Augustus]

Thanks Flint, mine are in .45 SW and I like that caliber.  Were the front sights on the barrels you worked with?

[Abilene]

The replacement barrels from Cimarron have the front sights so I expect that those from VTI do also.  Someone here will answer or you could always call VTI and ask.

[Flint]

Yes, front sights are installed.  The only thing missing, as it is a bolt-on part is the ejector assembly.

[Jubel]

I also have replacement barrels for most of my open tops. I like 7 1/2 and 5 1/2 barrels I also have (1) 8" and (2) Confederate barrels, to use depending on my mood and time period persona. Interchangeability was simple in every case just remember you can take off more metal than you can put back so take your time fitting. A dowel rod and emery cloth or a dremmel both will work again just go slow and test the fit  as you go.

Yes I have both VTI and Cimarron barrels and all came with the sight mounted.