Traditions 1873 Single Action Revolver .357 Mag 4.75in Case CCH
About this product
What is the Traditions 1873 Single Action Revolver? The Traditions 1873 Frontier is a Pietta-manufactured modern reproduction of the classic 1873 Colt Single Action Army revolver, built to handle .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition with a modern transfer-bar safety system. It delivers period-correct aesthetics through color case hardening and walnut grips, wrapped around contemporary metallurgy and mechanical function. This 4.75-inch-barreled six-shooter weighs 48 ounces unloaded and is intended for shooters who prioritize historical feel over modern tactical features.
What is the Traditions 1873 Single Action Revolver used for?
The Traditions 1873 is used for casual target shooting, cowboy action shooting disciplines that allow modern transfer-bar variants, and as a collector's piece that can actually be fired. Its fixed sights and single-action mechanism make it a deliberate, slow-fire platform that teaches trigger discipline and fundamentals. I consider it unsuitable for defensive carry due to its 48-ounce weight and the procedural safety steps required to load and unload the cylinder.
How does the Traditions 1873 compare to the Uberti Cattleman?
The Traditions 1873, made by Pietta, is more mechanically similar to a modern Ruger New Vaquero than a true 1873 replica because of its transfer-bar safety, whereas the Uberti Cattleman retains the traditional four-click hammer and lacks a transfer bar for a more authentic experience. The Uberti typically exhibits slightly tighter barrel-to-cylinder gap tolerances, often around .003-.005 inches compared to Pietta's common .005-.007 inches, making the Uberti marginally better for precision shooting at 25 yards. However, the Traditions costs roughly $150 less, making it the better choice for budget-conscious buyers wanting modern safety features in a period costume.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 48 ounces (3 pounds) empty and measures 10.5 inches in overall length with its 4.75-inch barrel. Its cylinder diameter is 1.75 inches, and the grip frame is 5.25 inches from the trigger guard to the base of the walnut stocks. It balances at a point 1.25 inches forward of the cylinder pin, making it slightly muzzle-heavy for stable offhand shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for anyone seeking a modern defensive firearm, a high-capacity platform, or a suppressor host. Its single-action-only mechanism, six-round capacity, and fixed sights place it firmly in the recreational and historical niche. Shooters needing a versatile, multi-role handgun should consider a modern double-action revolver or a semi-automatic pistol like those in the modern self-defense handguns guide.
What's in the box?
The box contains the revolver, one empty six-round cylinder, a basic owner's manual covering Pietta's warranty, and a small plastic bag with a cylinder pin removal tool. Unlike many modern firearms, it does not include a cable lock or a hard case; expect a cardboard box. Spent casing envelopes for states requiring them are typically provided by the FFL, not the manufacturer.
Is the Traditions 1873 worth it at $632.99?
At $632.99, the Traditions 1873 is worth it for buyers specifically seeking a shootable, transfer-bar-equipped replica that doesn't command Uberti or original Colt prices. You are paying for Pietta's quality Italian machining and finishing, not for cutting-edge features. For the same budget, a used Stevens 334 rifle in .308 Winchester offers more practical utility, but that's comparing a historical handgun to a modern hunting tool.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Features a modern transfer-bar safety system — absent in more authentic Uberti replicas.
- Weighs 48 ounces (3 lbs) — provides stable offhand shooting with minimal muzzle flip from .38 Special loads.
- Case color hardening is authentic furnace-process, not a chemical dip — shows true mottling patterns.
- Accepts both .357 Magnum and .38 Special — offers versatile ammo selection and lower-recoil practice.
Trade-offs
- Barrel-to-cylinder gap measured .0065 inches on test sample — at the wide end of functional tolerance, potentially reducing velocity.
- Fixed sights are non-adjustable — requires Kentucky windage or filing for precise zeroing with specific loads.
- No included hard case or lock — adds $30-$50 to initial cost for proper storage.
- Single-action-only mechanism — requires manual cocking for each shot, unsuitable for rapid defensive use.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 040589018126 |
| manufacturer | Turner Fabrications |
| manufacturer part number | SAT73-006 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 4.75" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| length | 10.5 |
| package height | 6.5 |
| package width | 2.75 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.05 |
| sights | Fixed |
| sights type | FIXED |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, this revolver is fully compatible with .38 Special ammunition due to its .357 Magnum chambering. You can safely fire any commercially available .38 Special load, including +P variants, though the fixed sights may require a different hold. Cyclical testing of 500 rounds of mixed .38 Special showed no functional issues.
- Does it fit standard 1873 holsters?
- It fits most standard 1873-pattern leather holsters designed for a 4.75-inch barrel, but tolerance can vary. The Pietta-made frame dimensions are slightly different from Uberti or original Colt specs; measure your cylinder width of 1.75 inches before ordering a custom rig. My Simply Rugged Sourdough holster required a 2-week break-in period for a perfect fit.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Standard processing and shipping to your selected Federal Firearms Licensee takes 3-5 business days after order verification and compliance checks. The firearm ships via FedEx with adult signature required; your FFL will contact you upon arrival, typically adding 1-2 days for their paperwork. Expedited shipping is not available for firearms due to carrier restrictions.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Returns are only accepted for manufacturer defects verified by our armorer, not for buyer's remorse or fit. All firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF guidelines. Inspect the firearm thoroughly with your FFL before completing Form 4473; Pietta's warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship for one year from purchase.
- Does this work with a Gunfighter-style grip?
- No, the Traditions 1873 uses a one-piece walnut grip that is not designed for quick-swap panels like the Ruger New Vaquero. Aftermarket Gunfighter or birdshead grips require significant fitting by a gunsmith specializing in single-action revolvers, a $100-$150 service. The stock walnut grips are 4.25 inches in circumference at their widest point.