Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC More Info

About the Gun

The Colt Single Action Army was designed for the US government service revolver trials of 1873 and was ultimately adopted as the standard military service revolver. A venerable single-action six-shooter, the gun is also known as the Colt .45 and sometimes as The Equalizer or Colt Peacekeeper. Single Action Army revolvers are categorized by generation. The first generation revolvers were produced between 1873 and 1940. Second Generation Colts were produced from 1956 to 1974. The Third Generation ran from 1976 until 1982 and became a limited-issue product. In 1994, production resumed and is known either as 'Late Third Generation' or sometimes Fourth Generation.

Production

Production of this firearm falls under the Third Generation, spanning from 1976 to 1981. It was also produced intermittently from 1994 to 2021 during later Third Generation runs, reflecting ongoing demand for this iconic design.

Market value

For this gun, the MSRP for a new unit is approximately $1,800-$2,000 based on recent 2024-2025 data. The market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $1,200-$1,500.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	.38 Special
Alias:	.38 Smith & Wesson Special
More Info

Analysis

This iconic revolver in .38 Special caliber offers a blend of historical charm and practical performance. Its accuracy is commendable, delivering consistent groupings at moderate ranges, making it suitable for both casual plinking and target practice. The ergonomics are a notable strength, with a grip design that fits comfortably in most hands, promoting a natural point of aim. Reliability is generally solid, thanks to its time-tested mechanism, though it requires diligent maintenance to prevent wear on internal components. Drawbacks include the challenge of sourcing replacement parts, which can be scarce and costly. Additionally, the single-action design may not suit shooters accustomed to modern double-action systems. The trigger pull is crisp and predictable, averaging around 3-4 pounds, while felt recoil is mild due to the cartridge’s moderate power, ensuring a pleasant shooting experience for most users.