what are some rifles that would pair well with a set of 1851 navy revolvers that you might have found in somewhat common use in the old west from 1851 through 1872?
The Colt Navy was usually caliber .36 (or .44 Army model), so I would start with Colt's New Model revolving rifle to utilize the same bullets. Made from 1855 until 1864 in a variety of calibers from .36 to .56.