Ruger Old Army Additional Stainless Steel Cylinders?

[WaddWatsonEllis]

Hi,

First, let me ask that you be kind cause I haven't even picked up the pistols yet...

But I am guessing that, using black powder, a couple of extra cylinders would be a really nice thing to have .....

That being said, I have three questions:

1.) Does Ruger still have SS ROA replacement cylinders? If so, has anyone ordered them, and know the part # and approximate price?

2.) Are there aftermarket SS cylinders that would work with the pistol. Again, if so, has anyone tried them? Was there any work needed to getting them to function? Are you pleased with them?

3.) If I must go the aftermarket way, does anyone have info on how to find the company or how much the cylinders are?

Thanks in advance for all your help!

[Pettifogger]

Ruger quit making the guns several years ago.  They used to fit extra cylinders, but it was relatively expensive.  You'll have to call them to see if they have any stainless cylinders left.  There are no aftermarket stainless cylinders.  (There was/is a company advertising blued cylinders, but most people have had bad luck with them.)  The Ruger cylinders are tough, much stronger material than the Italian C&Bs.  A few people like to go to the range with 16 loaded cylinders so they can "save time at the range."  But that is a huge expense with the Ruger and a waste of time.  If you buy a loading stand you can load on the range very quickly and don't have to clean 16 cylinders and don't need to waste an evening loading cylinders.  Also, the cylinders don't always interchange.  A couple of my ROAs won't take the cylinders from other ROAs.  Until you've gone out and shot a few matches keep it simple.  You have the finest C&B built.  It'll work forever with the cylinder that comes with the gun.

[WaddWatsonEllis]

Pettifogger,

I have been tentatively asked to join a reenactment gang that is doing Gold Rush things in Old Sacramento .... and when I asked about what my character would have, every one suggested that I get one (or two) 1851 Colts.

Actually a lot more in character and chronistically correct.

But I feel, like you, that I wanted something to use that was going to hold up to the shooting, and I haven't seen an 1851 Colt or reproduction that holds a candle to the ROA in both metallurgy and toughness. And from what I have heard on these forums, I have alot more chance of getting customer service from Ruger for a discontinued weapon than I have getting help on an in-stock reproduction.

I might get an 1851 to carry in my holster when doing docent work, but will fire the Rugers.

I guess what I am saying is that I like the fingers on my right hand and do not enjoy being called 'Lefty'... *S* or even chancing it....