Unleashing the Spirit of the Frontier: The Traditions 1858 Bison .44 Caliber Break-Open Revolver

For enthusiasts of historical firearms, dedicated target shooters, and those seeking a truly distinctive black powder experience, the Traditions 1858 Bison Break Open .44 Caliber Percussion Revolver stands as a testament to innovative design meeting timeless appeal. This meticulously crafted modern interpretation of the classic Model 1858 revolver doesn't just replicate history; it enhances it with features designed for today's discerning shooter, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to delve into the rich world of cap-and-ball revolvers.

Who Is This Revolver For?

The Traditions 1858 Bison is uniquely positioned to appeal to several key groups:

• Historical Firearm Aficionados and Collectors: If you appreciate the intricate mechanics and aesthetic beauty of firearms from a bygone era, but also value modern manufacturing quality and enhanced usability, the Bison is an ideal addition to your collection. Its unique break-open design sets it apart from typical 1858 replicas.
• Dedicated Target Shooters and Precision Enthusiasts: The extended 12-inch octagon barrel, combined with fully adjustable sights, transforms this black powder revolver into a surprisingly capable precision instrument. For shooters who enjoy the challenge and reward of black powder marksmanship, the Bison offers an unparalleled level of accuracy potential.
• Black Powder Shooting Enthusiasts: Whether you're a seasoned black powder veteran or looking to embark on your journey into cap-and-ball shooting, the Bison provides an authentic yet remarkably user-friendly platform. The #11 percussion ignition system offers a classic experience, while the break-open action simplifies the loading and unloading process, a significant advantage in this class of firearms.
• Re-enactors and Living Historians: While a modern interpretation, the Bison's foundational design is rooted in the iconic Model 1858, making it a visually striking and functional piece for historical demonstrations and re-enactments.

What Makes the Traditions 1858 Bison Stand Out?

This revolver isn't just another black powder replica; it introduces several key innovations and design choices that elevate its performance and appeal.

The Revolutionary Break-Open Action

Perhaps the most defining feature of the Traditions 1858 Bison is its "break-open" action. Unlike traditional percussion revolvers that require tedious individual loading through a loading gate or complete cylinder removal for reloading, the Bison's design allows the barrel and cylinder assembly to pivot downwards, exposing the chambers for quick and convenient loading and unloading. This ingenious mechanism, more commonly associated with cartridge-firing firearms, dramatically simplifies the black powder shooting experience, making it faster to get back to shooting and easier to clean. For many users, this single feature resolves one of the primary historical challenges of black powder revolvers, making the shooting session more enjoyable and less cumbersome.

Exceptional Precision with a 12-Inch Octagon Barrel

Another hallmark of the Bison is its impressive 12-inch octagon barrel. This extended length provides a significantly longer sight radius, directly contributing to enhanced accuracy, especially at longer distances. The heavy octagon profile not only adds to the revolver's formidable aesthetic but also provides rigidity and helps dissipate heat during extended shooting sessions. Coupled with the adjustable target sights, this barrel transforms the Bison from a mere historical replica into a serious contender for precision black powder shooting competitions or simply for achieving tighter groups at the range. Shooters often ask, "What's the best black powder revolver for accuracy?" The answer often points towards models with longer barrels and adjustable sights, making the Traditions 1858 Bison a strong candidate.

The Enduring Appeal of .44 Caliber

Chambered in .44 caliber, this revolver delivers a substantial punch, characteristic of the powerful black powder pistols of its era. The .44 caliber, typically referring to a .451" to .457" round ball or conical bullet when discussing percussion revolvers, offers a satisfying recoil and impressive downrange energy. This makes it suitable for target shooting, plinking, or even historical re-enactments where a robust projectile is desired. For those wondering, "Is the .44 caliber suitable for target practice?", the answer is a resounding yes, offering a blend of power and precision, particularly with the Bison's long barrel.

Classic Aesthetics and Robust Construction

The Traditions 1858 Bison expertly blends historical aesthetics with modern durability. The polished brass frame and trigger guard provide a striking contrast to the deep blued finish of the 12-inch octagon barrel and 6-shot cylinder. This combination not only looks historically authentic but also promises a long lifespan with proper care. The natural walnut grip offers both ergonomic comfort and a classic, appealing look, ensuring a secure hold even during extended shooting sessions. The overall length of 17 inches and a weight of 2.75 pounds contribute to a balanced feel, making the revolver stable and comfortable to handle despite its considerable barrel length.

Preparing for Your First Shots: Getting Started with the Traditions 1858 Bison

Embarking on your black powder journey with the Traditions 1858 Bison is an incredibly rewarding experience. To ensure a safe and enjoyable time, consider the following essentials:

1. Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate eye and hearing protection. Understand the principles of black powder firearms, including safe loading and firing procedures.
2. Black Powder: Use only black powder (FFG or FFFG) or approved black powder substitutes. Never use smokeless powder in a black powder firearm.
3. Projectiles: The .44 caliber typically uses round balls (.451" or .454") or conical bullets, often with a patch or lubricated wad over the powder charge to ensure a tight seal and proper lubrication.
4. Percussion Caps: The Traditions 1858 Bison utilizes #11 percussion caps for ignition. Ensure they are compatible and seat properly on the nipples.
5. Loading Tools: A powder measure, a ball starter, and possibly a capper will greatly assist in the loading process.
6. Cleaning Supplies: Black powder is corrosive, so immediate and thorough cleaning after shooting is crucial. A dedicated black powder cleaning kit with suitable solvents and lubricants is essential.

For those asking, "How do I start with black powder firearms?", the Traditions 1858 Bison, with its user-friendly break-open action, offers a simplified entry point into a fascinating segment of shooting sports.

Maintaining Your Traditions 1858 Bison: Care for Longevity

Proper maintenance is paramount for any firearm, especially black powder revolvers. Due to the corrosive nature of black powder residue, cleaning should commence as soon as possible after shooting, ideally within hours.

• Cleaning the Bore and Cylinder: Use a black powder solvent to thoroughly clean the barrel and cylinder chambers. Patch until clean, then follow with a rust preventative oil.
• Cleaning the Frame and Components: The brass frame can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution (ensure it's dried immediately and thoroughly) or specialized brass polish. Blued steel components should be wiped down with an oily rag to prevent rust.
• Lubrication: Lightly oil all moving parts, such as the hammer, trigger mechanism, and pivot points for the break-open action, with a good quality firearm lubricant.
• Storage: Store your revolver in a cool, dry place, ideally in a silicone-treated gun sock or a climate-controlled safe to prevent rust and tarnish.

For questions like, "How easy is it to maintain a brass frame revolver?", the answer is that it requires a bit more attention than an all-steel firearm to keep its luster, but it is a straightforward process that becomes part of the enjoyable ownership experience.

Why Choose a Traditions Firearm?

Traditions is a brand synonymous with quality in the black powder and muzzleloading industry. They are renowned for their commitment to producing historically inspired firearms that incorporate modern manufacturing techniques, ensuring both authenticity and reliability. When you choose a Traditions firearm, you are investing in a product backed by a legacy of craftsmanship and a dedication to the shooting sports. The Traditions 1858 Bison (UPC: 040589858128) is a prime example of this commitment, offering a unique and high-performing option for shooters and collectors alike.

Whether you're looking to challenge your marksmanship with a long-barreled percussion revolver, appreciate the unique engineering of a break-open black powder firearm, or simply add a stunning piece to your collection, the Traditions 1858 Bison delivers on all fronts. This revolver isn't just a tool; it's an experience, a connection to history, and a gateway to the satisfying world of black powder shooting. Find this exceptional piece and other quality firearms at DEGuns.com, your trusted source for a wide array of shooting sports equipment and firearms.

Specifications at a Glance

Feature	Detail
Brand	Traditions
Series	Bison
Model	1858
Caliber	.44 Cal
Action	Break Open
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	12 inches
Barrel Type	Octagon
Sights	Adjustable Target
Frame Finish	Brass
Barrel Finish	Blued
Cylinder Finish	Blued
Grip Material	Walnut
Ignition	#11 Percussion
Overall Length	17 inches
Weight	2.75 lbs
SKU / MPN	FR185812
UPC	040589858128