Colt 45 SAA 1884 Vintage Close-up

Published on June 23, 2009
Duration: 10:01

This guide details the disassembly and safe loading procedure for a vintage 1884 Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, as demonstrated by an expert. It covers the specific 'black powder frame' disassembly requiring screw removal for the base pin and the traditional 'John Wayne load' for safe carry. The instruction emphasizes the historical significance and collector value of this firearm.

Quick Summary

Learn to disassemble and safely load a vintage 1884 Colt Single Action Army (.45 LC) revolver. This expert guide covers the unique 'black powder frame' disassembly requiring a screw removal for the base pin and demonstrates the traditional 'John Wayne load' for safe carry, emphasizing the firearm's historical value.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 1884 Colt SAA
  2. 00:48Operation and Chambers
  3. 01:30Serial Numbers and Authenticity
  4. 02:52Black Powder Frame Disassembly
  5. 04:09Internal Components and Maintenance
  6. 05:43Reassembly and Safety Loading
  7. 08:33Final Features and Collector Value

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you disassemble a vintage 1884 Colt Single Action Army?

Disassembly involves placing the hammer at half-cock, removing the base pin screw with a vintage screwdriver, and then pulling out the base pin to release the cylinder. This 'black powder frame' design differs from later models.

What is the 'John Wayne load' for a Colt SAA?

The 'John Wayne load' is a safety technique where you load one round, skip the next chamber, and load four rounds. This ensures the hammer rests on an empty chamber when aligned with the barrel for safe carry.

Why is the 1884 Colt SAA considered a collector's item?

Its historical significance, original 'black powder frame' design, matching serial numbers, and the .45 Long Colt caliber contribute to its high collector value, often making preservation more desirable than frequent firing.

What tools are needed to work on a 1884 Colt SAA?

For the specific disassembly shown, a vintage-style screwdriver is required to remove the base pin retaining screw. Basic cleaning supplies like Ballistol are also recommended for maintenance.

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