Conversion Cylinder Question

[Queasy Dillo]

Another dumb question from armored rodent headquarters -

Recently I was considering buying a conversion cylinder for a Pietta '51 Navy.  As it stands now I'm too broke to afford one, but it got me thinking.

When did the conversion cylinder come about?  Is it historically accurate or a modern invention?  Any help appreciated. 

Dillo

[St. George]

Remington was initially licensed by Smith & Wesson to manufacture a  five-shot .46 rimfire conversion of their large-frame percussion revolvers - and to pay them a royalty for the privilege.

S&W held the patent on bored-through cylinders through Rollin White.

However - Remington devised an alternative method of manufacturing new cylinders featuring a detachable steel "cap" that held the ratchet teeth that didn't involve payment of royalties to Smith & Wesson.

This happened around 1869 - but the Rollin White patent expired during that year - causing a literal "explosion" of metallic cartridge revolvers to emerge.

Scouts Out!

[Queasy Dillo]

That got it.  Thanks guys.