Remington Model 1861 Army, serial 10590, cartouche ?

[William]

I am new to the Society but have collected antique weapons for a lengthy period of time some inherited, others acquired over the years. Recently I came across a Remington Model 1861 with a serial number of 10590, all matching, which would date 1862, this pistol has never been bothered with - all original, cartouche on the grips as usually found but vague lettering, does anyone know the letters of the cartouche found in this range of Remington serial numbers. Under green light there is a possibility that the letters are FBT, but that is not for certain. The rest of the markings on this paticular pistol can be read. Many Thanks

[Mike Strietbeck]

Based on the research by Slim Kohler and Don Ware, the Old Model Army revolvers (Model of 1861) were produced in 1862, during September through December. The Principal Sub-Inspector at that time was C. G. Curtis. His cartouche is "CGC" and he was only assigned to Remington from June to December 1862. It may be that your revolver has had the grips replaced at some time during its life.

I can find no information in my records of a cartouche "FBT", with the closest being "RPB" an unidentified “Principal Sub-Inspector”. RPB has been incorrectly identified as Robert P. Barry, an Ordnance Department Officer during the Civil War. This party inspected at Remington very late in the War. He also inspected Rogers and Spencer revolvers at Utica, New York, in early 1865, suggesting that he was also serving at Remington's Utica Armory.

Hope this helps in your search,

Mike Strietbeck

[john hamilton]

According to the Proofhouse web page http://proofhouse.com/cm/us_inspector.htm there was a FTB, name unknown, who inspected 1860 Colt Armys. Correct time period but wrong company. Maybe he was loaned to Remington for a while.