Colt 45 SAA 1884 Vintage

Published on January 20, 2010
Duration: 10:58

This review showcases a vintage 1884 Colt Single Action Army revolver, emphasizing its black powder frame and the necessity of using only black powder cartridges. Hickok45 compares it to a modern 1994 model, highlighting the 'load five' safety rule for fixed firing pins and demonstrating the significant smoke produced by black powder. The review concludes with a tactical draw demonstration and a tribute to the SAA's historical significance.

Quick Summary

The 1884 Colt Single Action Army features a black powder frame, requiring only black powder cartridges. For safety with fixed firing pins, use the 'load five' rule: load one, skip one chamber, then load four more. This vintage revolver produces significant smoke when fired with black powder.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Shooting Demonstration: Colt 45 SAA
  2. 00:24Introduction: Colt Single Action Army (Peacemaker)
  3. 01:311884 Model Specifics: Black Powder Frame
  4. 02:39Model Comparison & 'Load Five' Safety Rule
  5. 03:54Range Prep: Loading Vintage & Modern SAA
  6. 05:11Shooting the 1994 Colt SAA .45
  7. 06:53Shooting the 1884 Colt SAA (Black Powder Smoke)
  8. 08:16Tactical Draw & Shoot Demonstration
  9. 09:49Conclusion: Legacy of the Colt SAA

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes the 1884 Colt Single Action Army model?

The 1884 Colt Single Action Army is specifically a black powder frame model. This is identifiable by a particular screw on the frame and requires the exclusive use of black powder cartridges for safe operation, unlike later smokeless powder models.

What is the 'load five' safety rule for Colt SAAs?

The 'load five' rule is a critical safety measure for single-action revolvers with fixed firing pins. It involves loading one round, skipping the next chamber, and then loading four more rounds, ensuring the hammer rests on an empty chamber when the gun is at rest.

Why is using black powder cartridges important for the 1884 Colt SAA?

The 1884 model has a frame designed for the lower pressures of black powder. Using modern smokeless powder cartridges can create excessive pressure, potentially damaging the firearm and posing a safety risk. Black powder also produces characteristic smoke clouds.

How does the .45 Colt caliber compare to other .45s?

The .45 Colt caliber is noted as a 'true' .45 caliber. This means its actual bore diameter aligns with the .45 designation, distinguishing it from some other calibers that might be nominally larger but measure slightly less in diameter.

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