That’s a model 1848 Colt “Dragoon” pistol, that the Daily Mail somehow dug up, but at least put the disclaimer “this isn’t the actual gun used...”. The more likely pistol would have been a Colt Single Action Army revolver 1872 model, which does accept a metallic cartridge. The Mail is probably goofed up here.
In any event, Baldwin has benefited from people finding excuses for his behavior, which isn’t appropriate, imho. He’s not some callow youth, he’s been in the business for decades, has been briefed and trained on gun handling, and simply had to know that his behavior was unacceptable.
You simply don’t point a real gun at another human on set. The safety briefings are clear on that point: the director and the camera department head set up the shot to give whatever appearance the story needs without actually pointing a gun at someone.
There has been confusion about blanks as well. The first rule applies: you don’t point a gun you believe to be unloaded at another person. You certainly don’t point a gun you believe to be loaded with blanks at another person.
Baldwin knew this. He didn’t care. He’s special. And in a sane world, he would be held criminally liable for his negligence.
What is your point displaying misleading information?
Other stories say it was a real pistol that some of the crew were using for target practice during off hours/off days. They also say the victims were hit with a live round. So, hard to reconcile the accounts.
The gun used by Baldwin was NOT a cap and ball.