Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion: Bridging the Past with Modern Firepower

For enthusiasts of the American Old West, collectors of historical firearms, and competitive shooters in disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting, the appeal of a classic single-action revolver is undeniable. Yet, the convenience of modern cartridges often clashes with the desire for historical authenticity. This is where the Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion in .38 Special steps forward, offering a masterful blend of vintage aesthetics and contemporary practicality. This exceptional revolver is not merely a replica; it is a meticulously crafted homage to a pivotal moment in firearms history, designed to meet the demands of today's discerning shooter while honoring the ingenuity of the 19th century.

Are you searching for a revolver that offers the classic lines and feel of a mid-19th-century pistol but chambers easily available ammunition? Do you participate in Cowboy Action Shooting and require a reliable, period-correct firearm that delivers consistent performance? Or perhaps you are a collector looking to add a historically significant piece—one that represents a crucial evolution in firearm technology—to your display? The Cimarron CA925 is engineered precisely for these needs, solving the dilemma of combining historical accuracy with modern convenience. It’s a firearm that tells a story, performs flawlessly, and stands as a testament to an era of rapid innovation.

The Genesis of a Classic: Understanding the Richards-Mason Conversion

To truly appreciate the Cimarron CA925, one must delve into the fascinating history of the original Richards-Mason conversions. In the aftermath of the American Civil War, military arsenals and civilian hands alike held vast quantities of percussion revolvers, primarily Colt models like the 1851 Navy and 1860 Army. The advent of self-contained metallic cartridges, however, quickly rendered these cap-and-ball revolvers obsolete for practical military and civilian use. Firing a percussion revolver was a slow, multi-step process involving pouring powder, ramming a ball, and affixing a percussion cap for each shot. Cartridges, in contrast, offered speed, reliability, and ease of reloading.

Colt's Manufacturing Company, recognizing the need to adapt, developed ingenious solutions to convert their existing percussion arms to cartridge-firing revolvers. The first significant effort was by Charles Richards, resulting in the "Richards Conversion." Later, William Mason refined Richards' design, leading to the "Richards-Mason Conversion." These conversions involved several key modifications:

• A new breech plate: This allowed for the insertion of metallic cartridges from the rear of the cylinder.
• A loading gate: Located on the right side of the frame, this gate hinged open to facilitate loading and unloading.
• An ejector rod assembly: Integrated into the barrel assembly, this rod allowed for the quick expulsion of spent casings, a revolutionary feature for the time.
• Modified cylinders: The original percussion cylinders were often bored through to accept cartridges.

While only a relatively small number of original Richards-Mason conversions were produced—around 2,100 of the 1860 Army models and approximately 3,800 of the 1851 Navy models—their impact was profound. They represented a critical transitional phase in firearm development, bridging the gap between the black powder era and the modern cartridge age. These firearms saw continued use on the American frontier, contributing to the legend of the "six-shooter" and shaping the landscape of the Old West. The Cimarron CA925 meticulously recreates this important historical artifact, bringing its spirit and functionality to contemporary enthusiasts.

Cimarron's Dedication to Period Authenticity and Modern Quality

Cimarron Firearms is renowned for its unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, and the CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion is a prime example of this dedication. When you hold this revolver, you're not just holding a gun; you're holding a piece of history, recreated with modern manufacturing precision. Cimarron collaborates with reputable manufacturers to ensure that every detail, from the dimensions and balance to the finishes, faithfully replicates the original Richards-Mason conversions.

How does Cimarron achieve this remarkable authenticity while ensuring reliability for today's shooter? It starts with a deep understanding of historical firearms and meticulous attention to original specifications. The blued steel barrel and cylinder, for instance, are not merely cosmetic; they reflect the traditional finishing methods of the 19th century, offering a classic aesthetic that is both durable and beautiful. The color case hardened steel frame is another hallmark of period-correct craftsmanship. This process, which involves heating steel in a carbon-rich environment, creates a unique, vibrant, and incredibly hard surface that is both visually striking and highly resistant to wear. Each frame develops its own unique mottled pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays, making every Cimarron CA925 a one-of-a-kind piece.

Performance Features Designed for Discerning Shooters

Beyond its captivating historical appeal, the Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion is a highly functional and enjoyable firearm. Let's explore its key performance-oriented features:

• Caliber: .38 Special (SAO): The choice of .38 Special is a significant advantage. This popular cartridge offers a balanced combination of manageable recoil, good accuracy, and widespread availability. It’s an ideal choice for recreational shooting, target practice, and especially for Cowboy Action Shooting, where consistent performance and quick follow-up shots are crucial. The single-action-only (SAO) operation means the hammer must be manually cocked before each shot, delivering that authentic, deliberate shooting experience reminiscent of the Old West.
• Barrel Length: 7.50" Blued Steel Octagon Barrel: The 7.5-inch barrel length is a classic proportion for the 1851 Navy and offers several benefits. This longer sight radius contributes to enhanced accuracy, making it easier for shooters to achieve precise groupings on target. The octagonal profile of the barrel is another period-correct detail, reflecting the machining practices of the mid-1800s. Its blued finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a timeless aesthetic appeal.
• Capacity: 6 Rounds: True to the original "six-shooter" design, the Cimarron CA925 holds six rounds. This capacity is standard for the revolver type and perfectly suited for its intended applications, from casual plinking to multi-stage Cowboy Action scenarios.
• Frame and Grips: Color Case Hardened Steel Frame with Walnut Grip: The steel frame, robust and beautifully color case hardened, provides a solid foundation for the revolver. The walnut grip, meticulously shaped, offers a comfortable and secure hold, allowing for natural pointability and recoil absorption. The grain of the walnut adds another layer of natural beauty to the firearm, complementing the blued and case hardened finishes.
• Sights: Brass Bead Front Sight: The traditional brass bead front sight, paired with a notched rear sight integral to the frame, provides a simple, effective, and historically accurate sighting system. This style of sight is period-appropriate and intuitive for quick target acquisition, particularly valuable in fast-paced shooting competitions.

Who Will Benefit Most from the Cimarron CA925?

The Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion is a versatile firearm that appeals to a diverse group of enthusiasts. Is this the right revolver for you? Consider the following ideal use cases:

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS): For those immersed in the vibrant world of Cowboy Action Shooting, authenticity and reliability are paramount. The Cimarron CA925 fits seamlessly into this discipline, offering a period-correct revolver that handles and performs like the historical originals, but with the ease of .38 Special cartridges. Its balance, smooth action, and accurate sights make it a formidable and enjoyable competitor on the range. Many CAS participants specifically seek out Cimarron firearms due to their reputation for quality and adherence to historical designs.
• Historical Firearms Collectors: If your collection focuses on pivotal moments in firearms development, the Richards-Mason conversion is an absolute must-have. This revolver represents the crucial transition from percussion to cartridge firearms, a defining chapter in the evolution of handguns. The Cimarron CA925 offers a faithful, high-quality representation of this historical milestone, allowing collectors to own a piece of that legacy without the prohibitive cost or fragility of an original.
• Recreational Shooters and Enthusiasts: For anyone who simply enjoys shooting classic firearms or appreciates the craftsmanship of traditional revolvers, the CA925 provides an incredibly satisfying experience. The feel of a single-action revolver, the deliberate cocking of the hammer, and the crisp trigger pull offer a unique connection to shooting heritage. The .38 Special caliber ensures that ammunition is readily available and affordable for regular range sessions.
• Living History and Reenactment Groups: Authenticity is key for historical reenactors. The Cimarron CA925’s accurate design, traditional finishes, and operational characteristics make it an ideal choice for portraying characters from the post-Civil War American West. Its ability to fire modern blanks or live ammunition (on approved ranges) adds to its versatility for educational and demonstrative purposes.

The Cimarron Difference: A Legacy of Excellence

Choosing a Cimarron firearm means investing in a legacy of excellence. Cimarron's commitment goes beyond mere replication; they strive to capture the spirit and function of the firearms that tamed the American frontier. Their products are known for:

• Unrivaled Historical Accuracy: Cimarron’s dedication to researching original designs ensures that their replicas are among the most historically accurate available.
• Superior Craftsmanship: While mass-produced, each Cimarron firearm benefits from careful assembly and finishing, resulting in robust and reliable performance. The traditional bluing and color case hardening are performed with an eye toward both durability and aesthetic fidelity.
• Reliability for Modern Use: Despite their historical appearance, Cimarron firearms are built to modern standards, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of regular shooting with appropriate ammunition.
• Strong Community Support: Cimarron is a respected name in the Cowboy Action Shooting community and among historical firearm enthusiasts, often recommended for their quality and authenticity.

Caring for Your Cimarron Richards-Mason Conversion

Like any fine firearm, your Cimarron CA925 will benefit from proper care and maintenance. Its steel construction and traditional finishes require attention to ensure their longevity and beauty.

• Cleaning: After each shooting session, a thorough cleaning of the bore, cylinder chambers, and action is recommended to remove powder residue and fouling. Use appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants for firearms.
• Rust Prevention: The blued and color case hardened finishes, while durable, are susceptible to rust if exposed to moisture or corrosive elements. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of protective gun oil to all metal surfaces, especially in humid environments or before long-term storage.
• Walnut Grips: The walnut grips can be wiped down with a soft cloth. For added protection and luster, a small amount of wood-friendly gun stock oil can be applied periodically.
• Storage: Store your revolver in a dry, secure location, ideally in a padded gun case or a humidity-controlled safe.

By following these simple guidelines, your Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion will remain a beautiful and functional piece for generations to come, ready to perform whether on the firing line or as a cherished part of your collection. Its robust construction, highlighted by the sturdy steel frame and cylinder, ensures that it can withstand the test of time, much like the original firearms it emulates.

In conclusion, the Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion in .38 Special is more than just a firearm; it is a tangible link to a bygone era of innovation and frontier spirit. It offers the best of both worlds: the historical charm and classic handling of an iconic 19th-century revolver, combined with the convenience and reliability of modern cartridge ammunition. For the collector, the competitor, or simply the enthusiast who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship and a deep connection to history, this revolver stands as an unparalleled choice. Its robust steel construction, authentic color case hardened frame, blued steel barrel, and beautiful walnut grips are a testament to Cimarron's dedication to quality and historical fidelity. This is a firearm designed to be used, admired, and passed down, embodying the enduring legacy of the American West.

Cimarron CA925 Richards-Mason 1851 Navy Conversion Specifications

Feature	Description	UPC
Brand	Cimarron	814230011190
Series	Richards-Mason Conversion
Model	1851 Navy
Caliber	.38 Special
Barrel Length	7.50"
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Frame Finish	Color Case Hardened
Frame Material	Steel
Sights	Brass Bead Front
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Material	Steel
Grips	Walnut
Cylinder Material	Steel
Cylinder Finish	Blued
Barrel Description	Octagon
Weight	2.83 lbs
Hammer Style	Exposed
MPN	CA925