With patents for the conversion of percussion revolvers, Colt employees Charles Richards and William Mason cut off the cap-and-ball cylinders at the back and installed a conversion ring to accept cartridges. These conversion revolvers were favorites then and are enjoying popularity again as favorite reproductions. The Navy version of the C. Mason revolvers features a brass backstrap and triggerguard, octagonal barrel with brass post front sight, and a smaller-size Navy grip. All C.