Newbie here, How to identify a real 1858?

[sheikss]

Went to a gun store and saw a 1858 remi that they claimed was an original. The gunis in remarkable shape which makes me question it's authenticity. What are some things to look for to ensure it's not a reproduction? I've tried google and came up empty. Thanks

[Wolfgang]

There's folks around here far more expurt on originals than I am, . . . so I'll let them answer your question.  But I'm curious about the price they are askin' ? . . . Buying one or more original '58s is on my shopping list but there's a few other items ahead of them.  I'll be watching this thread to learn all I can.  Good shootin', . . . 

ps.  Ya might have a look around the internet at the originals offered by legitimate antique and collectable dealers to see the conditions and prices that are typical.  I keep looking at all that come up for reference re condition and pricing.  I'm looking to spend  around  $ 1,200 or so for a pretty decent one.  Really nice ones easily go to twice that or higher.

[Flint]

First of all, on a New Model Navy, the barrel top flat is stamped:  "PATENTED DEC. 17, 1861. MANUFACTURED BY REMINGTON'S, ILION, N.Y."

A New Model Army will have: "PATENTED SEPT. 14, 1858, E. REMINGTON & SONS, ILION, N.Y., U.S.A. NEW MODEL"

A Beals will have the markings: "BEALS PATENT, SEPT. 14, 1858.  MANUFACTURED BY REMINGTON, ILION, N.Y."

If there are no barrel markings, it has been filed off and refinished, and may or may not be original.  There should be no reference to "Black Powder Only" or such markings, as the originals didn't need such a warning.  There should be no proof marks as seen on Italian guns, and the serial number should appear on the bottom barrel flat and the side of the grip frame, under the wood.  Nowhere else.

[Wolfgang]

Flint, . . thanks fur postin'.  Good information.  By the way, . . . where is "Halfway Creek Charlie" ? . . . I miss him. 

[hellgate]

I cannot speak for the Remingtons but the colt originals had a gain twist rifling and shallower than the repros.

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Wolfgang - Howdy!

I'm not Flint, but this is what I've found out.  1/2 Creek Chas is MIA for the time being.

He posted (late last year) that he was both moving and getting new employment and wouldn't have Internet access for a while.  That's the last anyone's seen or heard of him.  A LOT of us miss him and his wisdom/sense of humor/knowledge of original Remingtons.