The Complete History of the Colt Single Action Army in One Man's Collection

Published on March 3, 2020
Duration: 22:19

This video details the Colt Single Action Army's history, from its 1873 introduction and U.S. Cavalry adoption to its market dominance over competitors like Smith & Wesson and Remington. It covers design evolution, including the Bisley model and grip changes, and discusses caliber compatibility with Winchester rifles for frontier use. The collection highlights custom engraving, provenance, and the three distinct production generations.

Quick Summary

The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) was introduced in 1873 and was the first true cartridge revolver by Colt. The U.S. government purchased over 36,000 units by 1891. Later models offered caliber compatibility with Winchester rifles, and production is divided into three distinct generations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt SAA Collector Ron Peterson
  2. 01:38Early Military Adoption & US Cavalry
  3. 02:40Market Dominance & Competitors
  4. 04:23Design Evolution: Bisley Model
  5. 06:01Grips and Barrel Length Variations
  6. 08:01Caliber Compatibility with Rifles
  7. 09:49Custom Engraving & Provenance
  8. 13:01Colt SAA Generations Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Colt Single Action Army first introduced?

The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) was first introduced in 1873. It was Colt's first true cartridge revolver and quickly became a significant firearm, especially with its adoption by the U.S. government.

What distinguished early military Colt SAAs?

Early military Colt SAAs, particularly those adopted by the U.S. government starting in 1875, are typically distinguished by 'US' markings stamped onto the frame. The government purchased tens of thousands of these revolvers.

Why were Colt SAAs chambered in rifle calibers like .44-40?

Colt produced SAAs in calibers like .44-40 and .32-20 to match popular Winchester rifle calibers. This allowed frontiersmen and cavalrymen to carry a single type of ammunition for both their rifle and revolver.

How many generations of Colt Single Action Army revolvers are there?

Production of the Colt Single Action Army is generally divided into three generations. The 1st Generation ran pre-1940, the 2nd Generation from 1955-1976 with interchangeable parts, and the 3rd Generation from 1976 onwards, featuring cast frames.

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