Why brass??

[m-g Willy]

Why would Colt switch from the brass grip frames they used on the earlier cap and ball revolvers to steel?
THE BLUEING WEARS OFF THE STEEL FRAMES AND RUSTS!
But the more the brass grip frames are handled the better they look.
Plus the brass has to be easier to make.

Just wondering

Willy

[Lloyd Smale]

Im sure it was to the point that steel was getting cheaper then brass and proably at the time the technology for casting brass wasnt as good as it is today and there were advantages to the stenght of steel and also steel is slightly lighter.

Why would Colt switch from the brass grip frames they used on the earlier cap and ball revolvers to steel?
THE BLUEING WEARS OFF THE STEEL FRAMES AND RUSTS!
But the more the brass grip frames are handled the better they look.
Plus the brass has to be easier to make.

Just wondering

Willy

[44 Man]

I also believe (and someone correct me if I am wrong) that brass corrodes easier when used with black powder.  At least it seem that to me based on my old brass frame cap and ball I had many years ago.  I know, steel will quickly rust from uncleaned black powder but I believe it was easier to clean up than that old brass frame was.  That said, I have always liked the looks of a brass grip frame on a SA revolver.  I remember years ago when Ruger offered it's Old Model Super Blackhawk (for a very short time) with a brass grip frame.  It was the one to get as it gave the old war horse a totally different look.  The only drawback I can see to the brass grip frame now is that it identifies with the early 'cheaper' Italian imports back when they did not have a good reputation for quality.  As for me, I like 'em!  44 Man

[Lloyd Smale]

Ive got to agree with 44man. A well executed gun with a brass grip frame can be very attractive.