Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion 38 Special Revolver with 5.5
Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in quality firearms and accessories. The Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion 38 Special Revolver with 5.5-inch barrel combines classic design with modern reliability. This revolver features a historically accurate conversion from cap-and-ball to cartridge firing. Available now for $99.00 with same-day shipping from our Kansas facility.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
Specifications
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches |
| Material | Steel frame and cylinder |
| Manufacturing | Uberti (Italy) |
| Finish | Blued |
| Action | Single Action |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs |
| Overall Length | 11 inches |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | U1851-38-5.5 |
Key Features
- Authentic 1851 Navy design converted to fire .38 Special cartridges
- 5.5-inch barrel provides good balance between accuracy and maneuverability
- Steel construction with traditional blued finish
- Single-action mechanism for precise shooting
- Historically significant design with modern functionality
Who This Revolver Is For
Buy it if:
- You appreciate historical firearms with modern functionality
- You want a reliable single-action revolver for target shooting
- You collect conversion revolvers or Civil War-era firearms
- You need a sturdy sidearm for cowboy action shooting
Skip it if:
- You prefer modern double-action revolvers (see our revolver collection)
- You need a concealed carry weapon (check our CCW options)
- You’re looking for a high-capacity firearm
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Authentic historical design with modern cartridge capability
- Excellent build quality from Uberti
- Good balance and handling characteristics
- Reliable single-action mechanism
- Affordable price for a quality conversion revolver
❌ Cons:
- Limited to single-action firing
- Six-round capacity may be limiting for some shooters
- Not ideal for modern defensive use
Comparison
| Feature | Uberti 1851 Navy Conversion | Pietta 1851 Navy | Taylor’s & Co. Conversion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.00 | $120.00 | $250.00+ |
| Material | Steel | Steel | Premium steel |
| Finish | Blued | Blued | Case-hardened |
| Caliber | .38 Special | .36 Cap & Ball | .38 Special/.45 Colt |
| Shipping | Same-day | 3-5 days | 1-2 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a cap-and-ball or cartridge revolver?
This is a cartridge conversion model chambered in .38 Special, not the original cap-and-ball configuration.
What’s the difference between the 1851 Navy and 1860 Army models?
The 1851 has a smaller frame and was originally .36 caliber, while the 1860 was .44 caliber with a larger frame.
Can this revolver use +P ammunition?
We recommend standard pressure .38 Special loads only – the conversion wasn’t designed for high-pressure rounds.
Where can I buy Uberti revolvers online?
Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com) carries a full selection of Uberti firearms with same-day shipping from Wichita, KS.
Does this come with a holster?
No, this is the revolver only. We carry period-correct holsters in our holsters category.
What’s the twist rate on the barrel?
The 5.5-inch barrel has a 1:16 twist rate, optimal for .38 Special ammunition.
Is this suitable for cowboy action shooting?
Yes, this conversion revolver meets most CAS requirements and is popular among reenactors.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Browse more: Revolvers | Full Shop
As a Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, I’ve handled hundreds of Uberti firearms and stand behind the quality of this conversion revolver. It’s an excellent choice for historical enthusiasts and single-action shooters.
Last updated: April 2026
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