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If one shot is good, two must be better.
Gunleather
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Holsters were just beginning to be made in the late 1840s. Single shot pistols were tucked into a belt, clipped to a belt, or held by a cylindrical strap. Leather pouches for protection of the heavy 'horse pistol' revolver were built into saddlebags. The 'California' pattern holster rapidly evolved during the gold rush when the argonauts cut the tops off of early flap holsters in order to have quick access to their weapons.
Pepperbox Percussion Pistols
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The 'Pepperbox' revolver has several complete barrels that rotate into position. This arrangement is both mechanically simpler than a cylinder revolver's but also prevents the fire from one shot from igniting the others. In the 1850's four pepperboxes could be bought for the price of one Colt revolver.
Pepperboxes generally have no sights and are front-heavy. They are usually heavier than revolvers, but often of higher caliber.
Percussion Revolver
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The percussion revolver did not enter production in significant numbers until 1849. By far the most common was the five shot 31 caliber pocket revolver. The 44 caliber Dragoons were uncommon and awkward to carry. The 36 caliber 'Navy' became increasingly popular after its 1850 introduction. Revolvers were expensive, costing more than a good watch.
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Customised pistol grips were made for both single shot pistols and for revolvers. The Colt factory often included elaborate grip treatments with its presentation sets.
Single Shot Percussion Pistol
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The single shot pistol was the most common personal weapon of the early 1850's, both as pocket pistols and belt-carried pistols.
