Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Ruger Old Army, a true classic in the black powder revolver scene. Now, a lot of you are probably wondering about barillet conversion for this beast. It’s a hot topic, and for good reason! The Old Army is an amazing firearm, but sometimes, you might want to explore options beyond its original .45 caliber black powder setup. This could be for a variety of reasons – maybe you want to shoot modern smokeless cartridges, or perhaps you're interested in different calibers altogether. Whatever your motivation, understanding the barillet conversion process, the types of conversions available, and what to expect is crucial. We're going to break down all the ins and outs, from the practicalities of fitting a new cylinder to the legal considerations. So, buckle up, because we're about to unlock some new possibilities for your beloved Ruger Old Army!

Understanding the Basics of Barillet Conversion

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. When we talk about barillet conversion for the Ruger Old Army, we're primarily discussing the replacement of the original black powder cylinder with one designed for modern metallic cartridges. The factory cylinder is designed to hold six rounds of .45 caliber percussion cap and ball. However, aftermarket manufacturers and skilled gunsmiths offer conversion cylinders that allow you to shoot readily available .45 Colt or even .45 ACP cartridges, among others. This is a game-changer for many shooters, offering convenience and a wider range of ammunition choices. The process itself usually involves a drop-in cylinder that fits snugly into the Old Army’s frame. It's designed to headspace correctly and align with the barrel, ensuring safe and accurate shooting. Barillet conversion isn't just about swapping parts; it's about adapting a classic design to modern shooting needs. It’s important to note that not all conversions are created equal. Some are designed for specific calibers and might require minor fitting. Others are more universal. We'll delve into the popular caliber options and the implications of each. The appeal of a barillet conversion lies in its ability to give your Ruger Old Army a new lease on life, combining its rugged build and classic aesthetics with the practicality of modern ammunition. Think about it: you get the satisfying feel and look of a large-frame revolver, but with the ease of loading and firing cartridges. This makes it a fantastic option for recreational shooting, and in some cases, even for self-defense, depending on local laws and the specific conversion used. The key takeaway here is that barillet conversion is a well-established modification that opens up a world of possibilities for Ruger Old Army owners who want to experience their firearm in a new way. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of this revolver and the ingenuity of the firearms community.

Popular Barillet Conversion Calibers

So, what are the go-to calibers when you're looking at a barillet conversion for your Ruger Old Army? The most common and arguably the most practical is .45 Colt. This iconic cartridge shares a historical connection with .45 caliber firearms and offers excellent performance in a revolver of the Old Army’s size. Shooting .45 Colt from a converted cylinder means you can use a vast array of factory loads, from cowboy action ammunition to more potent self-defense rounds. The ballistics of .45 Colt are well-suited to the barrel of the Old Army, providing good accuracy and stopping power. Another popular option, though slightly less common for the Old Army specifically, is .45 ACP. This is the cartridge used in many semi-automatic pistols like the 1911. While it's a different cartridge with different pressures and dimensions than .45 Colt, conversion cylinders are available that can reliably chamber and fire .45 ACP. When shooting .45 ACP from a conversion cylinder designed for it, you get access to an even wider variety of ammunition, often at a more budget-friendly price point than .45 Colt. It's crucial, however, to ensure the barillet conversion cylinder is specifically designed for .45 ACP, as the headspace and rim differences from .45 Colt can affect performance and safety. Some enthusiasts might even explore other .45 caliber variants, but sticking to .45 Colt and .45 ACP generally offers the best balance of availability, performance, and compatibility with established conversion kits. The choice between .45 Colt and .45 ACP often comes down to personal preference, ammunition availability in your area, and the intended use of the firearm. For historical accuracy and a classic shooting experience, .45 Colt is often the preferred choice. For sheer ammunition variety and potential cost savings, .45 ACP can be an attractive alternative. Regardless of your choice, a quality barillet conversion cylinder will be precisely machined to ensure proper function and safety with your chosen cartridge. Always double-check the specifications of the conversion cylinder to make sure it's compatible with your Ruger Old Army and the caliber you intend to shoot. This attention to detail ensures a smooth and enjoyable shooting experience.

The Conversion Process: What to Expect

Now, let's talk about the actual barillet conversion process. For most Ruger Old Army owners, this isn't a complex, in-depth modification that requires major gunsmithing. In fact, many conversion cylinders are designed as drop-in parts. This means you can typically remove your original black powder cylinder and insert the new cartridge cylinder without needing specialized tools or extensive knowledge. The process usually involves: 1. Removing the original cylinder: The Ruger Old Army cylinder is typically held in place by a cylinder pin and a cylinder latch. With a bit of gentle manipulation, you can usually slide the pin out, releasing the cylinder. 2. Inserting the conversion cylinder: The new barillet conversion cylinder is designed to slide right into the same space. It should fit snugly and align correctly with the frame and barrel. 3. Testing function: Once the new cylinder is in place, you'll want to check that the action cycles smoothly and that the cylinder locks up properly in each chamber. Dry firing (without ammunition) can help you feel how the action operates. Many conversion cylinders come with a new base pin, which might also be part of the installation. It's important to follow the manufacturer's specific instructions, as there can be slight variations. For instance, some cylinders might require a slightly different base pin or a specific method for removal and installation. While many conversions are indeed