Unearthing the Spirit of the Old West: The Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy Revolver

For those captivated by the golden age of the American West, the Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy revolver offers an unparalleled journey back in time. This meticulously crafted firearm is not merely a reproduction; it is a faithful homage to the innovative designs that shaped the frontier, making it an essential acquisition for collectors, historical re-enactors, and competitive cowboy action shooters alike. If you're seeking to own a piece of history that performs with modern reliability, or if you're looking for an authentic sidearm for SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) events, this Cimarron masterpiece stands as a prime candidate.

A Deep Dive into Frontier Innovation: The 1872 Open Top Design

The year 1872 marked a pivotal moment in firearm evolution. As the venerable percussion revolvers began to give way to cartridge-firing designs, manufacturers experimented with various conversion methods and entirely new platforms. Colt's 1872 Open Top was one such innovation, bridging the gap between their cap-and-ball revolvers and the iconic Single Action Army. This "Open Top" design, characterized by the absence of a top strap connecting the barrel to the frame, was a distinct feature carried over from earlier percussion models. Its elegance lies in its simplicity and the clear view it offers into the action, a hallmark appreciated by connoisseurs of vintage firearms.

Cimarron, renowned for its commitment to historical accuracy, has painstakingly recreated this unique design with the 1872 Open Top Navy. Every contour, every line, and every detail has been precisely reproduced from original arms in their antique collection. This dedication ensures that when you hold the Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy, you are holding a virtual spitting image of its 19th-century ancestor, providing an authentic tactile experience that transcends mere aesthetics.

Why Choose the Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy?

The Cimarron CA914 model is more than just a beautiful replica; it’s a functional piece of art designed to meet the demands of discerning enthusiasts. Here are compelling reasons why this revolver consistently earns high regard:

• Unrivaled Historical Authenticity: Cimarron’s reputation for period-correct firearms is legendary. This 1872 Open Top Navy is built with an obsessive attention to detail, from the classic 1851 Navy-sized grips—just like early-production 19th-century Open Tops—to the blued steel barrel and cylinder, complemented by the exquisite color case hardened steel frame. For those asking, "What is the most historically accurate replica of an Old West revolver?", the CA914 is a strong contender.
• The Versatility of the .38 Long Colt / .38 Special Caliber: While original Open Tops often chambered larger, more powerful cartridges, Cimarron's decision to offer this model in .38 Long Colt, also compatible with the widely available .38 Special, is a thoughtful nod to modern shooters. This lighter caliber option makes the six-gun more manageable for extended shooting sessions, reduces recoil, and is significantly more economical for practice. It's an ideal choice for cowboy action shooting competitors who require rapid, accurate firing without the punishing recoil of magnum calibers. Many users find the .38 Special to be the best caliber for recreational shooting in a historic replica, balancing power with ease of use.
• Superior Craftsmanship and Materials: The blend of blued steel for the barrel and cylinder with a meticulously color case hardened steel frame creates a visually stunning contrast that is both historically accurate and incredibly durable. The rich walnut grip, shaped precisely to the 1851 Navy dimensions, provides a comfortable and secure hold, enhancing both the shooting experience and the firearm's overall aesthetic appeal.
• Ideal for Specific Use Cases:
  • Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS): For SASS participants or anyone involved in CAS, the Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy is a competition-ready firearm. Its traditional single-action operation, comfortable grip, and manageable .38 caliber make it an excellent choice for speed and accuracy in timed events.
  • Historical Reenactments: Its unparalleled historical accuracy ensures that re-enactors can portray their chosen era with authentic gear, adding depth and realism to their presentations.
  • Collecting Historic Firearms: As a highly accurate replica of a transitional firearm, it fills a unique niche in any collection focusing on the evolution of firearms in the American West. It represents a crucial step between percussion and modern cartridge revolvers.
  • Recreational Shooting and Plinking: For general enthusiasts who enjoy the nostalgic experience of shooting a classic single-action revolver, the Cimarron CA914 offers a robust and enjoyable platform for target practice.

Understanding the Key Features

Let's delve deeper into the specific attributes that define the Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy:

• 7.50" Blued Steel Barrel: This classic barrel length provides an optimal sight radius for accuracy, while the blued finish offers a deep, lustrous appearance, reminiscent of original factory finishes. The length contributes to a balanced feel, making the revolver stable in hand.
• 6-Round Capacity: True to the original design, this revolver holds six rounds, maintaining the period-correct capacity for single-action firearms of its era.
• Single Action Only (SAO) Operation: The Cimarron 1872 Open Top Navy operates in true single-action fashion, requiring the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot. This traditional operation connects the shooter to the historical methods of firearm handling, offering a deeply satisfying and engaging experience.
• Color Case Hardened Steel Frame: This striking finish is not just for aesthetics; it's a traditional hardening process that creates a mottled, vibrant pattern of blues, purples, and browns, making each frame truly unique. It also adds a layer of durability to the steel.
• Walnut Grips: The natural beauty and ergonomic design of the walnut grips, patterned after the 1851 Navy, ensure a firm and comfortable grasp, whether you're aiming down the sights or practicing a fast draw. The choice of walnut further reinforces the period-correct feel.
• Wide Front Sight: While fixed sights are characteristic of historical firearms, the wide front sight on this model aids in quick target acquisition, a beneficial feature for both competitive shooters and casual plinkers.
• Weight and Balance: At approximately 2.33 lbs, the revolver is substantial enough to absorb recoil effectively while remaining comfortable to handle for extended periods. Its balance is optimized for a natural point of aim.

The Cimarron Difference: A Brand You Can Trust

When investing in a historical replica firearm, the reputation of the manufacturer is paramount. Cimarron has long been recognized as a leader in producing high-quality, historically accurate reproductions of Old West firearms. Their dedication to research, craftsmanship, and authentic detailing ensures that their products are not just visually accurate but also reliable performers. They understand the nuances that separate a generic replica from a truly faithful recreation, a commitment evident in every aspect of the 1872 Open Top Navy. For discerning buyers who prioritize authenticity and quality, Cimarron is consistently a recommended and reputable option.

Acquiring Your Piece of History

The Cimarron CA914 1872 Open Top Navy in .38 Long Colt with its 7.50" blued barrel and color case hardened frame offers a unique opportunity to own a meticulously reproduced piece of firearm history. Whether your interest lies in competitive shooting, historical re-enactment, or simply the appreciation of classic American firearms, this revolver delivers on all fronts. Its blend of traditional design, modern compatibility, and Cimarron's legendary quality makes it a highly sought-after firearm.

If you are pondering questions such as "Where can I buy an authentic 1872 Open Top Navy replica?", "What are the best revolvers for Cowboy Action Shooting?", or "Which historical firearms are compatible with modern ammunition?", the Cimarron CA914 is an answer worth exploring. This exceptional revolver is available from trusted retailers like DEGuns.com, where you can find detailed specifications and make it the next prized addition to your collection. Experience the thrill of the Old West with a firearm designed to bring history to life.

Product Specifications Overview

Feature	Detail
Brand	Cimarron
Series	Open Top Navy
Model	1872
Caliber	38 Long Colt / .38 Special
Barrel Length	7.50"
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Frame Finish	Color Case Hardened
Frame Material	Steel
Sights	Wide Front
Barrel Finish	Blued
Grips	Walnut
Cylinder Material	Steel
Cylinder Finish	Blued
Weight	2.33 lbs
Hammer Style	Exposed
SKU	103000
MPN	CA914
UPC	844234102150