Colt SAA Black Powder Frame

Published on January 16, 2011
Duration: 7:43

This review details the 1884 Colt Single Action Army, focusing on its 'black powder frame' design. Key identifiers include the screw-retained cylinder base pin, distinguishing it from modern smokeless frames with faster cross-pin releases. The video emphasizes that while black powder can be used in modern guns, smokeless powder is unsafe for antique black powder frames due to historical metallurgy limitations. It also demonstrates the traditional 'load five' safety method for carrying.

Quick Summary

A 'black powder frame' Colt SAA is identified by its screw-retained cylinder base pin. Modern 'smokeless' frames use a faster cross-pin release. Crucially, never use smokeless powder in antique black powder frames due to metallurgy limitations; stick to black powder or safe modern equivalents.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 1884 Colt SAA Black Powder Frame
  2. 00:45Identifying the Black Powder Frame Screw
  3. 01:57Smokeless Frame vs. Black Powder Frame
  4. 03:55Historical Context & Metallurgy
  5. 06:35Shooting Demo & Load Five Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes a 'black powder frame' Colt SAA from a modern one?

A key identifier is the cylinder base pin retention. Black powder frames use a screw at the front of the frame that must be removed to pull the pin. Modern 'smokeless' frames typically have a faster, spring-loaded cross-pin release.

Is it safe to shoot modern smokeless powder in an old black powder frame Colt?

No, it is extremely dangerous. Antique black powder frames were built with older metallurgy not designed for the higher pressures of smokeless powder. Using it can cause catastrophic failure and serious injury.

What is the 'load five' safety method for revolvers?

The 'load five' method involves loading four chambers and leaving the fifth empty, then lowering the hammer onto that empty chamber. This ensures the hammer rests safely on solid frame steel, not a live round, when carried.

When did Colt transition from black powder frames to smokeless frames?

The transition occurred in the mid-to-late 1890s as metallurgy improved. However, even some early models with the newer cross-pin release might not be rated for smokeless powder depending on their specific production year and construction.

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