Dumb ?? on BP Frame

[FloraBama Kid]

Would someone please explain to me how a Black Powder frame differs from a Cross-pin.

What is (if any) the down side to a BP frame?

Thanks.

[St. George]

Think about the cylinder pin and its method of retention.

The Black Powder frame - changed by 1896 - held that pin securely by the use of a screw.

These screws would frequently back off a bit - causing the cylinder pin to loosen - perhaps to drop out.

Colt's fix was the cross-pin assembly that holds the pin via spring tension, rather than mere pressure.

Scouts Out!

[Delmonico]

A real first generation Colt with a blackpowder frame has a frame made of wrought iron.  The smokless frames are made of steel.  I belive that some of the ones with crosspins are also made of wrought iron.  I have the serial number for the start of the steel frames up in my gunroom two floors up.  I will bring it down if any one wants to know.

I would not shoot any smokeless powder load in a wrought iron frame Colt.  Even if the psi of a Nitro load (nother and better name for so called smokeless powder) is the same as a blackpowder load the pressure curve is faster, putting more strain on the firearm.  These loads would probally not ever blow one up, but could cause frame streching and excelerated wear.

With both the historic value, not to mention the monertary value of a First Generation black powder frame Colt, why risk it?

[Dusty Chaps]

Me?  I like the finer lines of the BP frame.  Just make sure your screws are tight.