Then upon arriving and discovering the .357 option I agonized between .45 and .357 until about five minutes prior to closing. I rely primarily on handloads for this revolver. Collectors call it the Stagecoach box.. Winners must respond within 30 days of receiving notification or an alternate winner will be selected. More loading gates DO NOT match then those that do . When SAA production ended, the machinery was stored in a corner of the Colt plant. Model 1909 .45 ACP
This was the 2nd Generation SAA production. The best book there is on the subject.. He wrote about starting with the .32-20 WCF as a young man and, finding it terribly inadequate, moving on to the .45 Colt. and the 4" (right) was made a standard option in 1879. Before I lose too many of you by not even mentioning the ever-desirable first generation, hear me out. You dont like gold you say? Winners must respond within 30 days of receiving notification or an alternate winner will be selected. unknown) hard rubber (Colts standard grip), ivory (Colt custom shop) and Winners will be notified by certified mail on official letterhead. Click Here To View List And Links To All Colt Series Articles. Conversely, fully-blued SAAs were made too. During the 19th century, Colt firearms was one of the leading manufacturers of black powder revolvers. Colt Single Action Army 2nd Generation .357 Magnum with box. Some might say it is more an interest in collecting antique firearms which would certainly include part of the first generation. Great-great-grandaddy Mack Cullars, 1864, CSA vet. No purchase necessary. It has the four digit serial number 7450NF. (II) Limit one entry per household. So they specifically requested 1-piece walnut and they literally are just that. Shooting Master
Colt Single Action Army & Bisley Revolvers - Production Information. Georgia Department of Natural Resources, State Agency: To me, the Colt SAA is a working gun, and though expensive, it is to be expected that it works well. December Premiere Firearms Auction Preview Click Here. Obviously, there are almost endless levels of embellishment that can be done to these revolvers, whether its just a set of nice hardwood grips all the way up to 100% coverage master engraving and a set of mammoth ivory grips. Sign-up now to get more revolver content every Wednesday! This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies. On the other end of the spectrum, came the Sheriffs Model; it had only a 3" barrel but no provision for an ejector rod. NCOWS , GAF, B.O.L.D., Order of St. George, SOCOM. Eventually, the latter marking did appear again. There was the Buntline made popular by the Wyatt Earp television show; it was a standard SAA with 12" barrel length. I bought it back in 1976, sold it again in 1977, and then finally bought it a third time in 1996. Thanks. Late 3rd Gens (removable bushings) from the Custom Shop have the caliber stamped into the back of the cylinder but not the Colt. It's exhausting how much information is in that book. .22-.45 Service Model Conversion Unit
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, State Agency: Year / Serial Number . Often, .41 Colt is called .41 Long Colt but SAA .41s were never stamped with Long. Also in 1st Generation SAAs, none were marked .38-40 or .32-20 they all carried the WCF designation. Itd be very hard to believe that these two werent intended to be a pair, though the serial numbers arent consecutive, they were both manufactured in 1989. Outdoor Fact. Contest open to U.S. residents only. The pattern of the ratchet teeth on the rear of the cylinders is different for 1st Gen, 2nd Gen, and 3rd Gen. Since its beginning in 1873, the Colt SAA has been made in three distinct generations. First generation SAAs ran continuously until 1940 with serial numbers stopping at 357859; there were no letters in the serial numbers. Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife, State Agency: |
By their 2011 catalog, which I picked up at the SHOT Show, all the calibers mentioned (in this paragraph) are listed as currently available. As said before, however, Colt accommodated custom requests in those days, so, a great number of variations in finish are known to exist. To keep 1st and 2nd Generation SAAs sorted, Colt put an SA suffix at the end of the serial number. Camp Perry .22
Login with username, password and session length, Something of interest to add to your little Wilson booklet, and remember - 'Real Cowboys Shoot Colts'. of Coltautos.com and may not be reproduced or
(III) Giveaway winner(s) chosen by random drawing. The majority of Colt black powder revolvers, produced in the 20th century, are second generation. Serial Number Range. but some 3rd Generation SAAs are also stamped .38-40 as well. It has everything as far as Im concerned, including versatility, history and performance. Additional models were introduced as third-generation Black powder revolvers, so if your revolver is one of the three models cited above, that narrows it down. Here is what handgun hunters can expect from this big-bore X-Frame revolver. The auction prices for Colts seem to be a bit above the real world price. And yes, of course I understand that Helfricht is one of Colts legendary engravers, often in consideration right up there with Nimschke whose style became that of the American West, but what would you say if I told you, that I have had second and third generation Colt Single Action Armys in my hands over the past couple of weeks by contemporary engravers, or even unsigned, that are just as beautiful or even more so than a Helfricht? So did all 2nd Generation hammers. I'd say if the number on your cylinder matches the last three digits of the serial number, it is original to the gun. One is Buffalo Bores 255-grain semi-wadcutter at more than 1,000 fps. Note the one on left has a nickel-plated Standard barrel lengths remained 4 , 5 and 7 , but for some strange reason you couldnt buy a .44 Special with the shortest barrel length. Bankers Special .22 & .38
Ehlers Pistols 4 th & 5 th Model. As with the 1st Generation, towards its end of production, hammers In the 1st Generation of production, Colt SAA serial numbers were simply numerals. To view our December Premiere Firearms Auction Preview Click Here. The Peacemaker was another name used by the old west community. Life Lesson: Get the Colt SAA's serial number and call 1-800-962-COLT before making the purchase. My favorites are .44 WCFs first, and .38 WCFs second, with 7 barrel lengths as first choice. (II) Limit one (1) entry per household; multiple entries will disqualify entrants. I think a collector-grade revolver should be unfired in the original boxor if worn or shot, it should be a revolver with an historic provenance. The truth of the matter is those different frames have absolutely nothing to do with smokeless powder or black powder. Of course .45 Colt was tops, but the only other calibers offered as standard were .44 Special, .38 Special and .357 Magnum. If you are in search of a good-quality Single Action Army for the use it was intended, I recommend the 2nd Generation Colt SAA. Establish the model of the revolver that you're trying to identify. All 1860 Army revolvers are "F" series. Factory warranties may apply in some cases. That was the year Colt quietly let production cease for the second time. Barrel swapping between 3rd Generation and the previous two generations was now out. No wonder then that the firearms collecting fraternity and just about every TV watching kid focused on the Colt SAA revolver almost totally to the exclusion of every other Old West handgun. ****. This is definitely one of the revolvers that really grabbed my attention as just a true work of art. The wood was inlet so the revolvers grip frame could set into it. This beautiful Colt Single Action Army revolver is signed by L. Wright. Timm earned a Bachelor of Arts from the New York Institute of Technology in 2008 and emerged a technically astute writer. Giveaway prizes may have evidence of being test fired or exhibit minor handling marks. Finishes As with the first run of SAAs the 2nd Generation ones were finished either full nickel-plated or blued with color case hardened frames. Many years ago, while working as a security guard in college, I did lonely patrols in locales ranging from pulpwood plants to modern foundries. About 15,800 .357 Magnums and more than 34,000 .45s were made during the 2nd Generation years. Box 488, Escondido, CA 92033. I'm not knowledgeable with respect to 2nd Generation Single Actions, but Colt used the partial serial number on cylinders and barrels during various periods of production. Co. Hartford, CT U.S.A.". (I) Giveaway ends March 20, 2022. State Agency: Box 488, Escondido, CA 92033. (I) Giveaway ends May 31, 2023. Why does the manufacture / ship date on my letter not match what come up on Colt's database, or in any of the serial number lookups? If the original box that your revolver came in is black cardboard and features Samuel Colt's portrait and signature on the label, then your revolver is the second generation "F" series. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. Giveaway prizes may have evidence of being test fired or exhibit minor handling marks. Colt actually made some like this in the 1st Generation, but the Sheriffs By To protect the privacy and security of winners, names will not be made public. At #S26XXXA in 1999 the authentic removable base pin cyl bushing like 1st and 2nd gen guns is re-introduced and cyl end shake is all but eliminated. Check the Grade and Type of Gun. Serial Number Range. Gun: Second Generation Colt Single Action Army Buntline Special. They werent considering the new phenomenon of television. A large number of third-generation revolvers were produced as commemorative models. Deployed military should use stateside address. These guns are known as 2nd Generation, and I believe they are the best of the Single Action Army revolvers, an opinion that is shared by many. Further identify your revolver as "C" or "F" series. Rich Nance shows us a drill that helps with target transition and accuracy. In 1975, a special run of commemoratives was made and was called Peacemaker Centennials. About 1994, the SA letters were split and numbers started over again at S00001A. Mfg. Ace .22 LR
Winners will be notified by certified mail on official letterhead. I reckon the second one just rolled off the production floor. Box 1926, Escondido, CA 92033. My mind was set on one with a 4 barrel and they had one in both .357 Magnum and .45 Colt calibers. 1890s, the cylinders base pin was secured by a screw angling in from the Winners will be notified by certified mail on official letterhead. They were well made of good materials and were well fitted. (IV) Winners must undergo a background check (if needed) and comply with all other federal, state and local laws. Model 1902 Sporting .38 ACP
I decided on the latter. This revolver is a 2nd gen that was produce .Click for more info. Deployed military should use stateside address. Factory warranties may apply in some cases. started as a 2nd Generation .357 Magnum. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. Find the Year of Manufacture. Many other 2nd Generation Peacemakers have come and gone in these past decades, but the two detailed above were instrumental in launching me on my lifes career. grip frame, as was offered as a custom option by Colt in 1st Generation production. Finding answers to specific questions can be very frustrating. Associated taxes and fees are the responsibility of winners. I have never seen a Colt SAA marked as .44 WCF.. Smith & Wesson is first to create a production revolver in the popular .350 Legend cartridge. On these, the "SA" marking is moved to the front of the serial number. GI#: 102140949. Whereas the cylinders base-pin bushing was removable in the first two generations, now they were pressed in. This could be your opportunity to get a one of a kind heirloom to pass on to your grandchildren and beyond. All the while I had kept the original stagecoach box so now the two are together and will remain so throughout my lifetime. Please read our online Privacy Statement
Then World War II brewed up requiring all of Colts production capabilities for military weapons. .22 Target, Woodsman, Match Target and related
All entries must be received by giveaway end date. Worthy of note is that somewhere along the way in the past decade or so, Colt saw fit to go back to the removable cylinder-pin bushing. Year / Serial Number. Or any other explanation? But it was time well invested. Minnesota Deptartment of Natural Resources, State Agency: Colt Baby Dragoon Pocket. 1-piece walnut (Bozeman Trail Arms). It was soon followed by .357 Magnum, and in 1978 the .44 Special became available again. This was not a daunting task. Winners must respond within 30 days of receiving notification or an alternate winner will be selected. For instance, SAAs are known to exist as factory originals with color case-hardened frame, blued barrel and cylinder, and nickel plated grip frame. All 2nd Generation Colt SAAs (except for some commemoratives) were built with the transverse latch frame. Smith & Wesson's latest M&P Shield, the Plus, is at the head of the micro/high-cap class. Colt took a couple years recess to make more jigs and fixtures, and also to redesign the revolver in order to cut manufacturing costs. Also the barrel threads were changed from 20 per inch to 24 per inch. Area Code: 918. Hopefully a couple of these have caught your attention and maybe convinced you to give a second look at the more modern Colt Single Action Army revolvers, that are sadly often put on the back-burner by Colt collectors. No substitutions or transfers to third parties allowed. enter gun serial number. Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, State Agency: (I) Giveaway ends March 31, 2023. As the SAA became popular with civilians, 1-piece wood grips were replaced with other materials such as ivory, bone, horn and mother of pearl, as good examples. (III) Giveaway winner(s) chosen by random drawing. As I drove to that store, only a .45 Colt was in my head. Yes, there will always be those collectors that are only interested in engraving if it was done at the factory. It is . Scott Rupp and Richard Nance correct some common shooting advice. Something of interest to add to your little Wilson booklet, and remember - 'Real Cowboys Shoot Colts.'. Why is this? About 400 of the Second Generation Colt Single Actions were factory engraved by Colt's, the factory engravers of the period were Alvin Herbert, Earl Bieu, Dennis Kies, Robert Burt and Leonard Francolini. Page created in 0.267 seconds with 46 queries. Associated taxes and fees are the responsibility of winners. on 2nd Generation SAAs were polished bright on the sides. User Agreement Contest open to U.S. residents only. As far as I know, Mr. Collings is still engraving, but he certainly doesnt seem to be an easy man to track down, so you may want to grab up one of his works of art while you can. On screen the actor wore a Colt SAA with extra- long barrel. The .45 Colt is my favorite cartridge. See, Im not against factory engraving these are amazing! The four standard chamberings of the 2nd Generation SAA were (from left) .45 Colt, .44 Special, .357 Magnum and .38 Special. ------------------------------ Revolvers -----------------------------
RIAC believes that this website is accessible to the widest possible audience pursuant to the guidelines of the Americans with Disability Act. Colt said the original machinery was badly worn and chattering. The 3rd Generation guns are not bad guns, but in many ways, the Italian replicas are on a par with the Colts. Generation ones, there is still the possibility of parts interchangeability. In the late 1950s one of those popular western TV shows was named Wyatt Earp. Now, lets hit some details. The email listed 17 single-actions being produced that day. Colt Long Guns top. Contest void where prohibited by law. Furthermore Colt did not warranty any SAAs for smokeless powder ammunition until serial number 192000 in 1900. Colt mass produced these revolvers until 1873, when the introduction of smokeless powder and self-contained cartridges made black powder pistols obsolete. "It Wasn't Cowboys and Ponies - It Was Horses and Men. Model 1900 .38 ACP
Its time for the leap of faith now folks. Factory warranties may apply in some cases. Due to the popularity of the television show, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp , Colt introduced the aforementioned Buntline Special as a Second generation offering from 1957 to 1974. place was as a sidearm to accompany sabers for cavalrymen. Since the late 1870s, three different barrel lengths have been standard for the It is a relative rarity, with a 7.5-inch barrel and nickel plating, and it is chambered to .45 Colt. Sign-up now to get more revolver content every Wednesday! (II) Limit one (1) entry per household; multiple entries will disqualify entrants. Sticky Colt Single Action Army Forum Section PHOTO THREAD ! Employees and agents of Publishers Development Corp. are not eligible. A COLT SAA pistol is currently worth an average price of $2,574.46 new and $599.95 used . trademarks of Colt's Manufacturing Company, Inc. Hartford, CT. It isnt nearly as expensive as the collectible 1st Generation guns and will serve as well or better than any revolver. Early in his career, Keith said if he had to rely on factory ammunition, he would choose the .45 Colt over any other cartridge. Thats where well take up with the next installment, the 3rd Generation. No substitutions or transfers to third parties allowed. Thuer Third Model Derringer 41, The Rampant Horse and Colt logos are registered
These days, original Colt revolvers command a premium, and I believe some of the resulting prices are ridiculous. Currently, Third Generation guns made after Serial No. Colt Serial Rules and Regulations. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, State Agency: If you can't feel the music; it's only pink noise! Click here for more information. https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1014291126/the-colt-single-action-revolvers-a-shop-manual-volumes-1-and-2-book-by-jerry-kuhnhausen. I regretted it for many years. So sometimes you will find the serial number's last three digits on cylinder? Contest open to U.S. residents only. Second Generation Colt Single Action Army revolvers were produced from 1956-1974 and carried serial numbers in the range of 0001SA to 73,205SA. Again its interesting to note in the first run, only 506 had been chambered for .44 Special, and 625 for the magnum. Contest void where prohibited by law. Anyplace that is foolish enough to let me shoot. The four standard chamberings of the 2nd Generation SAA were (from left).45 Colt,.44 Special,.357 Magnum and.38 Special. ?? As such, it was given a 7" barrel. The even shorter 4" length was made on request, but did not become standard until 1879. No substitutions or transfers to third parties allowed. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, State Agency: Their .22 TCM, a shortened .223 round Smith & Wesson single-action sixguns were a vital part of our frontier history. Likewise Some second Gen guns may have numbers on the cylinder and others don't. Associated taxes and fees will be the responsibility of the winner. The story goes that Mr. Buntline had Colt make up some special SAAs with extra-long barrels which he then presented to a few frontier peace officers, with Wyatt Earp being one recipient. Factory warranties may apply in some cases. Give a Gift
This Colt has a 2nd Generation. The same was true when 3rd Generation versions appeared in 1976, and they remain so today, although mixtures of finishes are known to exist. Woodsman 2nd & 3rd Mod & Match Target. Third Generation Colt Single Action Army Serial Numbers, Re: Third Generation Colt Single Action Army Serial Numbers, Quote from: St. George on October 06, 2012, 08:32:29 AM, Quote from: yahoody on July 03, 2014, 01:48:39 AM. About 400 of the Second Generation Colt Single Actions were factory engraved by Colt's, the factory engravers of the period were Alvin Herbert, Earl Bieu, Dennis Kies, Robert Burt and Leonard Francolini. Those were merely different names for the same cartridge. Anyone who lived through the decades of the 50s and had a TV must remember the vast assortment of western programs. Year. Single Action Army & Bisley
Only a few of the 36 calibers the Colt SAA was once offered in were continued. No purchase necessary. I certainly do. main frame and grip frame, a 1st Generation barrel and a 3rd Generation .44 WCF/.44-40 cylinder.