Colt's first metallic centerfire revolver cartridge, used in the 1871–72 Open Top revolver and converted cap-and-ball revolvers. Preceded the .45 Colt as the primary US Army sidearm cartridge.
Type: Revolver
Introduced: 1871, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: None
Bullet diameter: 0.443" (11.25 mm)
Case length: 1.1" (27.94 mm)
Max pressure: 18,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Pistol
Typical twist rate: 1:20
Muzzle velocity: 740–800 fps
Muzzle energy: 255–320 ft-lbs
Effective range: 40 yd
Common bullet weights: 210, 225 gr
Primary use: Military, Self Defense
Production status: Discontinued
Also known as: 11.2x26mmR
History: Introduced in 1871 for Colt's first cartridge revolvers — conversions of cap-and-ball percussion revolvers and the new 1871–72 Open Top model. The US Army briefly used .44 Colt revolvers before adopting the .45 Colt with the Single Action Army in 1873. The cartridge survived in civilian use until the early 20th century; original ammunition is extremely rare antique material. Reproduction brass…
Notable firearms: Colt 1871–72 Open Top, Colt Richards Conversion, Colt Mason Conversion
Military use: United States (Army)
Similar cartridges: .44 Russian, .44-40 Winchester