Info on 1860 Manhattan Modification

[Dagnabbit]

Does anyone have any historical facts on the modification done to the 1860 Colt cap & Ball pistols.
I think it was called,,, the Manhattan Mod.  The narowing of the hammer face and an addition of a smaller window in the frames recoil plate, meant to help keep the fired caps from pulling back into the action.   Thanks

[St. George]

I checked Sutherland and Wilson's 'The Book of Colt Firearms' and there was no mention of anything like that in the chapter devoted to the Model 1860 Army.

Since that's pretty much the 'bible' of the serious Colt collector - I'd think that there'd be a reference of some sort.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Capt. Augustus]

I would like to see pictures of this modification.

[Dagnabbit]

I would too.
Heard of this Mod before and would like to realy know the low down on it.
Thanks for checking!
Maybe someone has heard of this.
   Gotta get goin, Dagnabbit

[St. George]

In what context had you heard it - historical or modern-day shooting?

Given that the preponderance of the Model 1860's went to the Cavalry - and that they were the heaviest users of the weapon - nothing seems to be mentioned of what you describe as a problem needing modification.

Had there been - Ordnance would've insisted on a fix, post-haste.

The Cavalry's technique of firing the revolver was that of a chopping motion - the piece is raised and cocked, one-handed - clearing the previously-fired cap via gravity and cylinder indexing motion, and then it's dropped and fired as it aligns in a natural position.

At the gallop...

Good Luck - and if you learn something on this - please post it.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!