Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858 – .45 Long Colt, 8-inch

About this product

What is the Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858? It's a historically-accurate reproduction of the Remington Model 1858 revolver, built with a modern .45 Long Colt conversion cylinder installed and shipped with an original-pattern .44 percussion cylinder for black powder shooting. This specific 8-inch octagon barrel configuration matches the 'Angel Eyes' film prop, offering a functional piece of cinematic history. For collectors and shooters focused on authenticity, it bridges the gap between a display piece and a viable range tool.

What is the Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858 used for?

The Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858 is used primarily for historical reenactment, cowboy action shooting in 'Heritage' or 'Classic' categories, and as a centerpiece collector’s piece. Its dual-cylinder design provides unique flexibility: you can shoot modern-factory .45 Long Colt ammunition for convenience at the range, or use the included .44 percussion cylinder to experience the original black powder loading process. The 8-inch barrel, 43.2-ounce weight, and authentic single-action lock-up demand a slower, deliberate firing pace suited to its historical role.

How does the Cimarron Angel Eyes compare to the Pietta 1858 New Model Army reproduction?

The Cimarron Angel Eyes is better for a collector or shooter prioritizing screen-accurate detail and an out-of-the-box cartridge conversion. While the standard Pietta reproduction is a mechanically sound and often less expensive black powder revolver (like their Stevens 334 rifles, it's built for cost), the Cimarron model ships with the .45 Long Colt cylinder fitted and a comprehensive case-hardening process that more closely mimics the 19th-century color case method. The difference is about $150 at retail, which buys you the conversion cylinder and Cimarron’s historically-focused finishing.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The revolver weighs 43.2 ounces (2.7 pounds) unloaded and measures 12.75 inches in overall length with the 8-inch octagon barrel. This specific 8-inch configuration adds significant front end weight compared to the 5.5-inch or 7.5-inch barrel variants, shifting the balance point approximately 3 inches forward of the cylinder pin. The grip frame dimensions are period-correct at 1.38 inches wide at the backstrap, which dictates a specific two-hand hold for shooters with larger hands.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is not for a shooter seeking a modern defensive firearm or high-volume range plinking. The single-action-only mechanism requires manual cocking for every shot, and the fixed sights are a minimalist V-notch and blade front—completely inadequate for any precision work beyond 25 yards against a man-sized target. If your primary goal is practical shooting, consider a modern design like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun, which offers faster handling and easier maintenance.

What's in the box?

You receive the revolver with the .45 Long Colt conversion cylinder installed, a spare .44 caliber percussion cylinder, a cylinder loading tool for black powder, a factory test target (typically a 3-inch group at 15 yards with .45 Colt), and owner’s manuals covering both cartridge and black powder operation. Notably, the box does not include any cleaning supplies for corrosive black powder residues, which are mandatory if you plan to use the percussion cylinder.

Is the Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858 worth it at $661.99?

At $661.99, it's worth the price if your primary criteria are historical authenticity and the convenience of a factory-installed conversion cylinder. You are paying a premium of roughly $200 over a basic Pietta 1858 percussion model for Cimarron’s better finishing and the fitted cartridge cylinder. For a shooter who wants only a black powder revolver, that premium isn't justified. For a collector or competitor who needs the dual capability and the 'Angel Eyes' film pedigree, it's a logical single purchase.