Black powder frame screw vs cross pin

[Michael Bear]

Hello fine gents

Just out of curiosity and since not too many cowboys keep talking lately, I'd like to bring out another topic which I'm sure came out earlier.
What are some advantages/disadventages of having one or the other black powder/old frame screw and cross pin to remove cylinder?
Thank You

[Pettifogger]

There is only one advantage, you can remove the base pin by just pressing the spring loaded cross pin.  Disadvantage of the old style, you need a screw driver to remove it and it is much easier to lose if it wiggles loose and falls out.  Other than that, it's just looks and what you like.

[Joe Lafives]

What Larsen said!

[Shotgun Franklin]

And you won't bugger up the cross pin with a poor fitting screwdriver.

[Trailrider]

The above comments are very valid for modern-made guns. Original Colt's single actions with the spring-loaded cross pin may or MAY NOT be proofed for smokeless powder. Although some people refer to the screw retainer style as "black powder" frames, and the cross-pin as "smokeless", in fact Colt's did NOT warrant their SA's for smokeless until about 1901! Check the serial number range and refer to Kopec's book or similar reference for the manufacturing date and smokeless warrantee statement on ORIGINAL Colt's Single Actions.

[Michael Bear]

Well, mine is the EMF Hartford. So i guess there shouldn't be no issues with screw falling off since it's made to shoot smokeless.
Both frames are good looking though. Btw, aren't bp frames supposed to be used in western movies?

[TwoWalks Baldridge]

Well, mine is the EMF Hartford. So i guess there shouldn't be no issues with screw falling off since it's made to shoot smokeless.

Well I would not take it that far.  Being modern will not stop that screw from falling out.  Truth is I have a Uberti Cattleman and the cross pin has a tendency to become loose.  If a person does not check the screws and cross pins they might be in search of a replacement.  Just a few weeks ago at a competition I had the ejector rod housing fall off a Uberti.

[Cliff Fendley]

When a cross pin comes apart while shooting you have to replace three parts. Had that happen.

[harleydavis]

What are some advantages/disadventages of having one or the other black powder/old frame screw and cross pin to remove cylinder?

IMHO, it is a question of authenticity if you have that mindset. Unless your character/impression is late 1890's the frame screw models are your only choice. If you are unconcerned with that aspect, the cross pin models are easier when it time to clean. I have both versions and there is no difference in terms of functionality etc.

[Rebel Dave]

I have had cross pins with week springs, that will  let the cylinder pin (base pin I think it's called) come loose, and booger up the cylinder. Luckily I caught it before the pin backed out to far. SO... if the screw is tight it won't let the base pin back out. On the other hand you should make sure you're cross pin has a strong spring in it. I was shooting my 44-40 with 30 grns of 3F  when it came loose. .

Rebel Dave

[sail32]

Hi Rebel Dave,
I have had the same problem with my .44-40 Pietta GW2.
Where did you find a stronger spring ?
Thanks
sail32