Black powder revolvers were developed using the flintlock ignition system but were far from satisfactory. The small charge of loose priming powder used in the flintlock ignition system had to be prevented from falling out as the cylinder revolved, this problem was never adequately solved.

 It wasn't until the percussion cap was perfected that a reliable revolver could be used effectively. The percussion cap, snugly fit on the nipple of a cylinder and the nipple was fitted directly behind the powder charge in the cylinder creating a near perfect in-line ignition system, the cap would not fall off when the cylinder was rotated or held in any position.

 Other improvements like rifled barrels made these revolvers and other pistols accurate and very effective to a range of 50 to 75 yards, depending on the caliber and projectile.

 When the Civil War broke out, there were at least 60 pistol manufacturers in the United States most of which were located in the New England states, with Colt, Remington, and Smith and Wesson dominating the market.

 Both Colt and Remington were in business during the early and mid 1800's and by 1847, the Colt six shot revolver had already been adopted for military use by mounted troops. During the Civil War, the U.S. Government purchased 373,077 percussion pistols.