Custom Italian 1851 Navy .36 Cal Engraved 2 Barrel Set Cap & Ball Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,026.00
LSB#: LSB260218HG035
Make: Italian
Model: 1851 Navy
Serial Number: A30010
Year of Manufacture: 2002 (BS Date Code) ATF antique
Caliber: .36 Black Powder
Action Type: Percussion Cap Black Powder Revolver with a 6-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The bottom of the 5″ barrel is marked “Cal .36 Black Powder Only, Made in Italy”. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame as well as the bottom of each barrel assembly.
Barrel Length: 5″, 12″
Sights / Optics: On the 5″ barrel the front sight is a brass mortised cone fit into the barrel. This setup utilizes the V notch in the hammer, visible when cocked, for a rear sight. The 12″ barrel has a front sight consisting of a brass mortised cone. The rear sight is a 2 leaf folding V notch dovetailed into the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one piece smooth walnut. There are scratches and compression dents throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall this grip is in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Color Case, Silver Plated grip frame.
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The 5″ bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is some fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 8/10. The 12″ bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is a minor squib ring about 2″ from the cylinder. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its current metal finish. There are light scratches and a couple small corrosion freckles scattered throughout. The color case has been refinished and the colors are vivid. The silver plating shows minor tarnish and a few light scratches. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this revolver is in Good condition due to the bore condition on the 12″ barrel. That bore condition aside, this revolver would rate in Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: This revolver appears to be in functional condition. The timing is good. The cylinder stop lockup is tight. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used guns a full cleaning may be necessary to meet your standards. The 12″ bore is not unsafe to shoot but the minor squib ring may affect accuracy and cleaning intervals.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Extra barrel.
Our Assessment: This custom Italian 1851 Navy revolver represents a modified and embellished interpretation of the classic Colt Navy pattern, enhanced by a two-barrel set that offers both a compact and extended configuration. The original 1851 Navy was one of the most widely used percussion revolvers of the mid-19th century, known for its balance, reliability, and .36 caliber chambering. This example departs from standard configuration with a 5″ shortened barrel and a 12″ extended barrel, along with engraved and refinished surfaces that give it a more decorative and customized appearance compared to traditional military or civilian patterns.
Chambered in .36 caliber black powder, the revolver maintains the six-shot percussion system characteristic of the Navy design, offering moderate recoil and historically consistent performance. The two included barrels provide different handling characteristics, with the shorter 5″ configuration offering a more compact profile and the longer 12″ barrel providing increased sight radius and a more deliberate shooting platform. The 12″ barrel’s addition of a two-leaf rear sight further distinguishes it from the more traditional hammer-notch sighting system used with the shorter barrel, reflecting a custom approach to improving usability.
This example presents in good overall condition, retaining approximately 95% of its current finish with light handling marks and minor surface wear. The refinished case colors are vivid, and the silver-plated grip frame shows light tarnish, while the walnut grip remains structurally sound with moderate wear. The 5″ barrel bore is bright with sharp rifling, while the 12″ barrel shows a minor squib ring that may influence performance. Mechanically, the revolver appears functional with good timing and lockup. Overall, this is a visually distinctive and versatile custom piece, with condition considerations centered primarily on the extended barrel. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF