Pietta Spiller & Burr .36 Cal Black Powder Revolver - 6.5" Barrel, Brass Frame, Blue Finish

The Pietta Spiller & Burr .36 caliber black powder revolver brings authentic Civil War–era history to your range, reenactment, or collection. Modeled after the Whitney design and adopted by the Confederate government during the war, this brass-framed .36 revolver combines historical significance with straightforward black powder shooting. The 6.5-inch blued octagonal barrel, brass frame, and walnut grips deliver the look and feel of the originals—without the scarcity that makes genuine examples museum pieces. Whether you're a living historian, a traditional shooter, or someone who appreciates American firearms heritage, this replica offers a hands-on way to experience a pivotal era of gun design.

Black powder revolvers like the Spiller & Burr were prized by Confederate troops because they didn't demand specialized ammunition; soldiers could source and maintain them using available materials and powder. That practicality translates to the modern shooter too—you'll load each chamber with black powder, a patched round ball, and a percussion cap, keeping things simple and mechanical. The fixed top-strap sights keep you focused on marksmanship fundamentals, and the moderate .36 caliber generates manageable recoil, making it accessible to shooters new to cap-and-ball revolvers.

Built by Pietta, a respected maker of historical replicas, this revolver balances authenticity with reliable construction. At 2.75 pounds and 12.5 inches overall, it handles like a sidearm from 1863—compact, well-balanced, and period-correct in every detail. Perfect for display, reenactment, or range sessions steeped in history, the Spiller & Burr earns a place in any serious black powder collection.

Key Features

• .36 caliber black powder—authentic period cartridge
• 6.5-inch blued octagonal barrel for classical lines and handling
• Brass frame and brass guard for authentic appearance and durability
• Walnut grip scales for period-correct ergonomics
• Top-strap/post sights for traditional aiming
• Historically accurate Spiller & Burr design, modeled after the Whitney revolver
• Ideal for reenactment, living history, and black powder sport shooting

Specifications

Caliber	.36
Barrel Length	6.5 inches
Barrel Style	Octagonal, blued finish
Frame Material	Brass
Guard	Brass
Grip	Walnut
Sights	Top-strap/post
Overall Length	12.5 inches
Weight	2.75 pounds
Manufacturer	Pietta

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ammunition does the Spiller & Burr use?

This is a cap-and-ball black powder revolver. You'll load each of the six chambers with black powder, a patched round ball, and cap it with a percussion cap. No cartridge ammunition is used.

Is this revolver good for reenactment and living history events?

Yes. The Spiller & Burr is historically accurate in appearance and function, making it ideal for Civil War reenactment, historical demonstrations, and period-authentic shooting sports. Always confirm with your event organizers about their rules and safety standards before attending.

What comes in the box?

We've provided the facts about the revolver itself, but we don't have details about what accessories, documentation, or extras are included. Contact us for a complete list of what ships with this revolver.

Is this a safe gun to shoot, or is it just a display piece?

The Pietta Spiller & Burr is a functional black powder revolver, not an inert replica. If you intend to shoot it, you must follow all federal, state, and local firearms laws, handle it with the same safety discipline you'd apply to any firearm, and get proper instruction in black powder handling. If display is your goal, it's an outstanding historical piece on its own.