Apparently the color-case on at least some of the 1885's was really shallow, more for decoration than functionality. 

As for heat-treating one can always try. If you quench one of the early actions (1008) you won't get any hardening even quenching into water. 
The late ones, presumably of 1522,  should respond well quenching in water and maybe into a fast oil. 
If it were me I'd try at salt bath (NaCl) a bit above melting point and quench into oil. Soak for a few minutes after all the salt melts off the piece ... then quench. Remember, molten salt is just as dangerous as molten lead when it comes to having water nearby. 

I once tested a high wall mockup of 4140 at Rc 20. Couldn't do it with a compressed load of 3130 in a .308. It finally blew with a faster powder the load after the one that expanded the primer pocket to twice original size. Needless to say this was done from behind a concrete wall. 

The Brits proof some of their stuff before case hardening. 

Some modern builders don't heat-treat. ( Martini-Hagn)