Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Long Colt 5.50-inch Floral Engraved

About this product

The Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Long Colt 5.50-inch Floral Engraved is a forged steel single-action revolver that combines historical authenticity with modern manufacturing precision for cowboy action shooting and serious collecting. Built on the original 1873 pattern that changed firearms history, this reproduction maintains the mechanical integrity of Colts that won the West while incorporating contemporary heat treatment and laser engraving techniques. The 40-ounce weight and 11.10-inch overall length provide the heft familiar to shooters who appreciate genuine single-action balance rather than modern plastic-frame alternatives.

What is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman used for?

This revolver serves three primary functions: competitive cowboy action shooting where period-correct firearms are required, as a showpiece for collectors who appreciate hand-chased engraving, and for recreational shooting with historical cartridges. The single-action mechanism meets SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) competition regulations, while the .45 Long Colt chambering provides authentic recoil characteristics. The white floral engraving makes it particularly suitable for display or ceremonial use where appearance matters as much as function.

How does the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Cattleman serves entirely different ballistic and regulatory purposes than bolt-action rifles like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, with the revolver offering rapid close-range engagement versus the rifle's precision distance shooting. Where the Stevens platform delivers sub-MOA accuracy at 100+ yards with centerfire rifle cartridges, the Cattleman's 5.50-inch barrel limits effective range to approximately 25 yards with its .45 Long Colt pistol rounds. For homestead defense or hunting applications, the rifle provides superior stopping power and accuracy, while the revolver excels in historical recreation and competition scenarios where fast presentation matters more than long-range precision.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The revolver weighs exactly 40 ounces (2.5 pounds) with an overall length of 11.10 inches and barrel length of 5.50 inches. The cylinder measures 1.73 inches in diameter with six chambers spaced at 60-degree intervals, while the walnut grip adds 4.25 inches of purchase area. These dimensions create a balanced platform that points naturally, with the weight distributed 55% forward of the trigger guard for stable off-hand shooting.

Who is this NOT for?

This firearm specifically does not suit tactical operators, concealed carry permit holders, or anyone seeking modern defensive capabilities. The single-action requirement to manually cock the hammer before each shot creates significant delay compared to double-action revolvers or semi-automatics. At 40 ounces unloaded, it's 12 ounces heavier than polymer-frame alternatives like the Glock 21, making constant carry impractical. The elaborate engraving also makes regular holster wear a legitimate concern for daily-use scenarios.

What's in the box?

The package includes the revolver itself, one six-round capacity cylinder, and typically a padded plastic case with foam insert for transport. Unlike modern defensive firearms, you won't find cleaning kits or additional magazines since the design predates such accessories by decades. The ATF-approved packaging meets all Title I firearm transportation requirements, with serialization matching the frame's laser-etched markings near the trigger guard.

Is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman worth it at $814.99?

At this price point, the value depends entirely on your need for authentic engraving versus basic functionality. The Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun delivers comparable craftsmanship at nearly half the cost, but lacks the historical significance. For serious cowboy action competitors who require specific engraving patterns for authenticity points, the investment justifies itself through competition advantages. The hand-chasing process alone represents approximately 3-4 hours of skilled labor that basic models omit entirely.