I'm writing a fiction piece and need to know if the Colt Revolving Rifle model 1855(?)could have been chambered for metal cartridges before the war. I'm trying to keep my story accurate and would like to have it take place before the war.

I have to confess I simply don't know exactly how the paper cartridge system worked and where the percussion cap went. It would make my life easier if my hero could simply use the metal cartridge. :-)

Thanks, y'all.

Bill