Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 5.50-inch 6-Shot
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 5.50-inch 6-Shot? It's a faithful reproduction of the Colt Single Action Army revolver built with forged steel components and period-correct handling characteristics. This particular configuration features a 5.50-inch blued barrel, color case-hardened frame, and traditional walnut grips that deliver authentic 1870s-era revolver performance with modern manufacturing consistency.
What is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman used for?
This revolver serves three primary functions: cowboy action shooting competitions, historical reenactments, and deliberate range practice. The single-action operation requires manual cocking between shots, which enforces disciplined trigger control and makes it ideal for shooters who appreciate traditional firearms handling. Its 45 Colt chambering provides substantial stopping power while maintaining historical authenticity.
How does the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Cattleman revolver operates completely differently from bolt-action rifles like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win. While the Stevens offers modern centerfire rifle performance with 4+1 capacity and scoped accuracy at 200+ yards, the Cattleman provides six rounds of close-range revolver authenticity with a maximum effective range of approximately 50 yards. The Cattleman excels in historical contexts where the Stevens dominates in practical hunting applications.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 2.50 pounds (40 ounces) and measures 11.10 inches in overall length. The 5.50-inch barrel provides a sight radius of 7.25 inches between front blade and rear notch, while the cylinder diameter measures 1.75 inches across its widest point. These dimensions match original 1873 Colt specifications within manufacturing tolerances.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for defensive carry or rapid engagement scenarios. The single-action mechanism requires 2-3 seconds between aimed shots compared to modern double-action revolvers that can fire in under 1 second. Shooters needing high-capacity or optics-ready platforms should consider modern alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun for clay sports or semi-automatic pistols for defensive use.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and basic documentation. Unlike modern firearms that include cleaning kits or cable locks, this reproduction focuses on historical accuracy rather than accessory inclusion. You'll need to purchase 45 Colt ammunition separately and should budget $25-40 for a period-correct holster.
Is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman worth it at $651.99?
At $651.99, this revolver delivers exceptional value for historical firearms enthusiasts. The forged steel construction and color case-hardening process typically add $150-200 over basic blued finishes, while the 5.50-inch barrel provides better balance than shorter 4.75-inch models. For authentic single-action revolver performance, this price falls mid-range between $400 Italian imports and $1,200+ custom shop reproductions.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Forged steel frame withstands 5,000+ rounds of standard pressure 45 Colt
- 5.50-inch barrel provides 7.25-inch sight radius—1.25 inches longer than 4.75-inch models
- Color case-hardening adds $150 value over basic blued finishes
- Walnut grips shaped to original 1873 specifications with 95% authenticity rating
Trade-offs
- Single-action only—requires 2-3 seconds between aimed shots versus 1 second for double-action
- No transfer bar safety—must carry with empty chamber under hammer for complete safety
- Fixed sights require filing for zeroing—adds $75-100 gunsmithing cost for precise adjustment
- 6-round capacity limits practical use compared to 8-shot modern revolvers
Key attributes
| upc | 839665001080 |
| manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
| manufacturer part number | 550897 |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 5.50" |
| caliber/gauge | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| capacity | 6 |
| product type | Revolver |
| sights | Blade Front/Notched Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with modern 45 Colt ammunition?
- Yes, it handles standard pressure 45 Colt ammunition up to 14,000 PSI. Avoid +P or Ruger-only loads exceeding 20,000 PSI as the traditional frame isn't rated for higher pressures. Stick with factory loads from Federal, Winchester, or Remington for reliable operation.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- It fits most holsters designed for Colt Single Action Army revolvers with 5.5-inch barrels. The frame dimensions match original Colts within 0.125 inches, so it will work with leather rigs from makers like El Paso Saddlery or Triple K. Allow 2-3 weeks break-in time for stiff leather holsters.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically take 3-5 business days after processing. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required delivery. Your local FFL will contact you when the firearm arrives for background check completion.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for mechanical defects. The firearm must be unfired and in original packaging for full refund—once fired, it goes to Taylors and Company for warranty repair which takes 4-6 weeks. Always test function with snap caps before live firing.
- Does this work with cowboy action shooting speedloaders?
- No, single-action revolvers require individual cartridge loading. Competition shooters use loading blocks that hold 6 rounds for rapid reloading—expect 8-10 second reload times versus 2-3 seconds with moon clip revolvers. Practice loading drills to improve stage times.