Howdy Pards!
Speaking of international flavor... here is an endorsement of Colts...
COLT'S REVOLVERS versus CARBINES FOR THE CAVALRY AND ARTILLERY.
To the Editor of Jackson's WOOLWICH (England) JOURNAL, & ARMY AND NAVY GAZETTE.
Sir,—Previous to my departure for the seat of war, I had read with much interest the various opinions expressed in your journal respecting the introduction and use of Colt's Revolvers. I was induced thereby to purchase one, and try it. I have had many opportunities of so doing, and feel in duty bound, as an act of common justice to you and the ingenious inventor, Colt, to state as far as my experience and observation have served me, that what you have stated is—True.
1st.—The weapon is most formidable and efficient.
2nd.-The objection raised against the method of cocking, i. e., drawing back the hammer by the thumb, instead of by the pull at the trigger, as in some other weapons, I consider an advantage. The difference in the rapidity of fire by others is nothing—a skilful person can use Colt's quite as quickly ; and the great advantage you get of one shot more and sighting with Colt's, over the other method, is undeniable. The long, steady, strong
pull at the trigger, necessary to rotate the cylinder, throw back the hammer, and to produce the shot, depresses the muzzle and turns it out of' range.
3rd.--The method of loading Colt's arm by the aid of the lever ramrod, thus securing and sealing the charges, is very superior.
4th.—The nicety of poise and balance is admirable; the recoil in firing is very trifling —a most material point in ball practice.
5th.-In firing about 60 snap shots—quick shots—at thirty yards, many struck the bull's eye, while a large proportion were within a space of twelve inches square. I found pieces of the bullets rebounding back to the spot where I stood.
6th.-I am decidedly of opinion that Colt's Revolver might be substituted for a Carbine. for force of penetration and length of range it is nearly equal; and it can be easily cocked and shot with one hand—while the Carbine requires two.
7th.—Finally, I am prepared to back the opinion of the scientific inventor of the big guns, viz., C. W. Lancaster, who states in his evidence before the Select Committee of the House of Commons on Small Arms, 20th March,1854, that "COLONEL COLT'S PISTOL. IS THE BEST REPEATING ARM THAT WE HAVE."
I remain, Sir, your obedient servant, CONTINGENT..
Mick Archer