The Taylor's & Co. 1860 Open Top Conversion is a single-action revolver chambered in .38 Special, built on the open-top frame profile of the original 1860 Army. The 7.5-inch blued barrel and case-hardened steel frame give it the period-correct look that cowboy action shooters and collectors want, while the .38 Special chambering makes ammunition practical and easy to source. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taylor's & Co. 
• Model Name: 1860 Open Top Conversion 
• Caliber: .38 Special 
• Action: Single Action Only (SAO) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 7.5 inches 
• Overall Length: 13.3 inches 
• Weight: 2.6 pounds (41 ounces) 
• Sights: Blade Front & Fixed Rear 
• Grip Material: Walnut Army Size 
• Finish: 
  • Barrel: Blued 
  • Frame: Case Hardened Steel 
     

Detailed Features 

 
Single-action operation means cocking the hammer before each shot, which slows the pace and rewards deliberate trigger work. The walnut grip is full Army size, comfortable for extended range sessions. Blade front and fixed rear sights keep target acquisition simple and direct. The blued barrel resists wear while complementing the case-hardened frame aesthetically. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

1. Sport Shooting: The 7.5-inch barrel length suits range use and cowboy action stages. 
2. Living History / Reenactments: Period-accurate design makes it appropriate for historical events. 
3. Home Defense: While designed for sport, the .38 Special chambering provides usable stopping power if needed.

The Taylor's 1860 Open Top .38 Spl draws a crowd that's fairly consistent in what they appreciate: the case-hardened finish, walnut grip, and the craftsmanship that goes into making it look authentic. Collectors and cowboy action shooters are the main audience, and both groups praise the attention to period-correct detail.

Performance feedback is generally positive at .38 Special standard-pressure loads. Accuracy at typical range distances is considered satisfactory, and the single-action trigger is praised for crisp feel. Some owners note caution around high-pressure +P loads, which aren't well-suited to the open-top design.

Weight and balance come up occasionally. At 41 oz and 13.3 inches overall, most shooters find it easy to handle for extended sessions, though some would prefer slightly different balance when compared to modern revolvers.

Community engagement around this model is notably active. Owners share range experiences, competition results, and maintenance tips for keeping the blued barrel and case-hardened frame looking their best.