If you’re chasing that authentic Old West feel with modern reliability, the Taylors & Company 550858 1873 Gunfighter 45 Colt (LC) Caliber with 5.50″ Blued Finish Barrel, 6rd Capacity Blued Finish Cylinder, Color Case Hardened Finish Steel Frame & Walnut Army Size Grip is the real deal. This isn’t a replica—it’s a forged-frame Single Action Army that can handle heavy competition loads and still look like it just rode out of a frontier town.
| Manufacturer | Taylors & Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 550858 1873 Gunfighter |
| Material | Forged steel frame, walnut grip |
| Compatibility | .45 Colt (LC) ammunition |
| Finish | Blued barrel & cylinder, color case hardened frame |
| Weight | Approx. 40 oz. (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Forged Steel Frame – Why it matters: Unlike cast frames, this forging aligns the grain structure for superior strength, meaning this revolver will endure thousands of rounds in Cowboy Action Shooting without loosening up.
- 5.50″ Blued Barrel – Why it matters: The perfect balance between sight radius for accuracy and quick draw speed—you get a full-length ejector rod housing for positive shell extraction every time.
- Color Case Hardened Frame – Why it matters: That mottled, vintage look isn’t just cosmetic; the case hardening process adds surface durability, resisting holster wear while giving you a piece that turns heads at every gun show.
- Walnut Army Size Grip – Why it matters: The classic one-piece grip fills your hand naturally, absorbing recoil from hot .45 Colt loads while keeping your shooting hand anchored for fast follow-up shots.
- 6-Round Capacity – Why it matters: You get that iconic six-shooter feel with a transfer bar safety system, letting you carry all six chambers loaded—no need to leave an empty under the hammer.
Who It’s For
This revolver is aimed at Cowboy Action shooters who compete in SASS or NCOWS matches, collectors hunting for an authentic-feeling 1873 with modern metallurgy, and anyone who appreciates the craftsmanship of a forged-frame Single Action. If you’re a gun show regular who wants a shooter that also displays beautifully, this is your wheelhouse.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Forged frame is noticeably tighter than cast competitors—less cylinder play, better lockup.
- Pro: The color case hardened finish is deep and vibrant, not a washed-out imitation.
- Con: The 5.50″ barrel makes it less ideal for concealed carry or quick-draw holsters designed for 4.75″ models—you’ll need a holster specifically cut for this barrel length.
- Pro: Taylor’s uses genuine walnut for the grip, not cheap laminate—it ages beautifully with handling.
Comparison
| Feature | Taylors & Co. 1873 Gunfighter | Uberti 1873 Cattleman | Ruger Vaquero |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame | Forged steel | Cast steel | Cast stainless steel |
| Barrel Length | 5.50″ | 4.75″ or 5.50″ | 4.62″ or 5.50″ |
| Finish | Blued + color case hardened | Blued or case hardened | Stainless or blued |
| Grip | Walnut army size | Walnut or plastic | Hard rubber or walnut |
| Price | $654.71 | $500–$600 | $750–$900 |
| Best For | Authentic feel + competition durability | Budget-friendly entry | Rugged field use |
FAQ
What kind of ammunition does this revolver use?
It chambers .45 Colt (Long Colt) only. Do not use .45 ACP or .45 Schofield—the cylinder is bored for the longer .45 LC case.
Is this safe to carry with all six chambers loaded?
Yes. Taylors & Company includes a hammer block safety that prevents firing unless the trigger is deliberately pulled. You can safely load all six rounds.
Will this fit standard 1873 holsters?
Most holsters for 5.50″ barreled 1873s will work, but check the barrel length spec before ordering. The 5.50″ barrel requires a holster with at least a 5.75″ drop to accommodate the ejector rod housing.
Does this come with a warranty?
Taylors & Company backs their firearms with a one-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Register your purchase online after delivery.
Why Buy from Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Browse more: Revolvers | Single Action Revolvers | Cowboy Action Gear




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