The .44 Colt is a centerfire revolver cartridge originally produced in the mid-19th century, introduced in 1871 for use in conversions of the Colt 1860 Army percussion revolver. The cartridge case is typically made from brass and typically measures around 1.1 inches (28 mm) in length.
The .44 Colt was loaded with black powder and typically used a heeled bullet that is .452 inches in diameter. Modern reproductions of this cartridge often use a .429-inch diameter bullet, similar to those used in the .44 Special or .44 Magnum.
In terms of performance, the .44 Colt cartridge was relatively modest by today’s standards, suitable for personal defense and law enforcement purposes during its time. The original muzzle velocity was around 700-750 feet per second (fps).
Today, the .44 Colt cartridge is of interest primarily to historical reenactors and firearm collectors, particularly those with an interest in Civil War and Old West history. Modern reproductions of firearms chambered in .44 Colt, as well as the ammunition itself, are available from specialty manufacturers.