Finally got to shoot my 51's

[gjr902]

I finally got to shoot my new 1851 Navy 8" and 5 1/2" revolvers. These are a blast to shoot. The most fun I've had with a gun in years. The 8" is great. The 5 1/2" is a bear to load. The short loading arm doesn't allow much leverage. Any suggestions on how to seat the ball? An extention maybe? Also, how do you guys carry the balls, wads, tools, etc. I was thinking a possible bag, but you dont often see a cowboy carrying one in the movies.(not that movies are always historically accurate)

Gary

 

[torn moc]

slide about a 6" piece of 1/2" copper water pipe over the loading lever for an extension. It will make ramming the ball alot easier.

 

[Leatherbark]

On the short barrelled jobbies I use my thumb in the trigger guard and fingers on the lever and it helps. Or palm of the hand over the lever and grasp the trigger guard with the middle finger and squeeze the ball in.

As to carrying your stuff. I like to use a belt bag opposite the holster. In the bag you can place a small flask, wads, balls tools and a rag along with a small oil dropper. I also have the use of a small brush to brush out the fouling............Bob