150 Years of Colt's Single Action Army

Published on October 30, 2024
Duration: 9:42

This video explores the 150-year history and enduring appeal of the Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, also known as the Peacemaker. It details its development in 1873, influenced by the expiration of the Rollin White patent, and its subsequent adoption by the U.S. military. The SAA's iconic design, reliability, and chambering in powerful cartridges like the .45 Colt are highlighted, along with its cultural impact through film and television, leading to its continued production through various generations.

Quick Summary

The Colt Single Action Army (SAA), also known as the Peacemaker, was introduced in 1873 and became the epitome of refinement for self-contained metallic cartridges. Its development was influenced by the expiration of the Rollin White patent, and it was originally chambered for the powerful .45 Colt cartridge. The SAA's iconic design, reliability, and cultural impact have ensured its continued production through multiple generations.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction to the Colt Single Action Army
  2. 00:28History and Introduction of the SAA in 1873
  3. 01:39The Rollin White Patent and its Impact
  4. 02:25Development by Richards and Mason
  5. 03:05Design Features and Ergonomics
  6. 03:33Available Calibers for the SAA
  7. 04:01Comparison with Smith & Wesson Schofield
  8. 04:17Production Numbers and Era
  9. 04:52Technical Specifications and .45 Colt Cartridge
  10. 05:39Collector Appeal and Variations
  11. 05:55U.S. Military Adoption and Use
  12. 06:31Military Service vs. Civilian Popularity
  13. 06:44Evolution of Revolver Technology
  14. 07:38Resurgence of the SAA in Popular Culture
  15. 08:07Second Generation SAA Production
  16. 08:33Third Generation SAA Production and Changes
  17. 09:02Colt's Return to Traditional SAA Design
  18. 09:17Enduring Legacy of the Colt SAA

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Colt Single Action Army revolver first introduced?

The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, also known as the Peacemaker or Model P, was introduced in 1873. It quickly became the benchmark for revolvers utilizing self-contained metallic cartridges.

What was the primary cartridge for the Colt Single Action Army?

The Colt Single Action Army was primarily chambered for the .45 Colt cartridge, which Colt developed in conjunction with Union Metallic Cartridge specifically for this firearm. This powerful cartridge was intended for military use and proved effective for defense.

What historical patent influenced the design of the Colt SAA?

The design of the Colt Single Action Army was significantly influenced by the expiration of the Rollin White patent in 1869. This patent had previously restricted other manufacturers, including Colt, from producing revolvers with cylinders bored through the rear, a key feature of the SAA.

How many Colt Single Action Army revolvers were produced before World War II?

From its introduction in 1873 until 1940, approximately 357,000 Colt Single Action Army revolvers were manufactured. A significant portion, about half of the total production, was completed before the turn of the 20th century.

Why did Colt restart production of the Single Action Army after discontinuing it?

Colt discontinued the Single Action Army in 1941 due to tepid sales and wartime production needs. However, the resurgence of Westerns on television in the mid-20th century created renewed public demand, prompting Colt to restart production, leading to the second and third generations of the SAA.

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