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Mr. 16 gauge
06-11-2011, 11:23 AM
Just how was it done? I don't mean the loading procedure, but did they have 'kits' that they used to load up, or did they carry loose ball, caps, ect. and load from a flask?
I know a lot of soldiers carried more than one revolver, and I'm assuming it was because the loading process was so slow. I've also heard that guys would carry preloaded cylinders and pop out the spent one and load the loaded one...I've also heard this is a dangerous practice, as the caps on the loaded cylinder can be banged against something and ignite the round as it's being loaded. (anyone have any experience with that?) I've seen a lot of replica civil war holsters with cap pouches, but nothing in the way of carrying a flask or ball.
Reason I ask is that I am thinking about putting together a loading "kit"; putting together some paper cartridges, a tin of caps and a small tin of grease in a leather pouch to 'load 'em up quick".....not that I have any real need to, but I just thought it might be interesting.
Thanks for any input or knowledge you might have............

Adam Helmer
06-11-2011, 12:26 PM
Mr. 16 gauge,

I have an original Civil War U.S. Navy .36 caliber ammo pouch that held two pre-loaded cylinders and 6 paper cartridges of powder and ball in a wooden tray inside the leather belt pouch. The Army issued .44 caliber paper cartridges for the Colt and Remington C&B revolvers. Caps were routinely carried in a belt cap pouch.

The CW cavalry on both sides usually carried two pistols and several pre-loaded cylinders. The Union also liked carbines while the Rebs preferred shotguns. Hope this helps.

Adam