Pietta HF45CHS512NM 1873 Great Western II Californian 45 Colt (Long Colt) 6rd 5.50″ Blued Steel Barrel & Cylinder, Color Case Hardened Steel Frame, Walnut Grip, Exposed Hammer

The Pietta HF45CHS512NM 1873 Great Western II Californian in .45 Colt is a direct link to the Old West, built with modern CNC precision. This 5.50″ blued steel barrel and cylinder revolver features a color case hardened steel frame and walnut grip, making it a period-correct sixgun that shoots as good as it looks. Whether you’re punching paper or running cowboy action stages, this Pietta HF45CHS512NM 1873 Great Western II Californian delivers the feel of a true Colt SAA without the collector price tag.

Manufacturer	Pietta (EMF)
Model	1873 Great Western II Californian
Material	Hammer forged steel barrel & cylinder, color case hardened steel frame
Compatibility	.45 Colt (Long Colt)
Finish	Blued steel barrel & cylinder, color case hardened steel frame
Weight	Approx. 2.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Hammer Forged Steel Barrel & Frame — Drop forged then CNC machined for tight tolerances and repeatable accuracy. This means your shots go where you aim, every time.
• Floating Firing Pin in the Hammer — Period-correct design that prevents slam-fires and mimics the original Colt action. It keeps your fingers safe and your gun reliable.
• Wider Rear & Larger Front Sights — Faster sight acquisition for competition or plinking. You’ll pick up that front blade in a split second, even under stress.
• Color Case Hardened Frame — Authentic look with modern metallurgy. Each frame has a unique color pattern, so your revolver is one of a kind.
• Walnut Grip — Classic American hardwood, checkered for a secure hold. It feels natural in the hand and soaks up recoil from hot .45 Colt loads.

Who It’s For

This revolver is built for collectors who demand authenticity, cowboy action shooters who need reliability, and anyone who appreciates the craftsmanship of a single-action sixgun. It’s also perfect for gun show enthusiasts looking for a shooter-grade Colt clone that won’t break the bank.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: CNC-machined internals give you a smooth action right out of the box — no gunsmithing needed for a crisp trigger pull.
• Pro: The 5.50″ barrel balances perfectly for both holster carry and target work.
• Con: The color case hardening is beautiful but can wear over time with heavy holster use — treat it like the classic finish it is.
• Pro: Floating firing pin design means you can safely carry all six chambers loaded (if you prefer the old-school way).

Comparison

Feature	Pietta Great Western II Californian	Uberti 1873 Cattleman	Ruger Vaquero
Frame Material	Color case hardened steel	Case colored steel	Stainless steel
Barrel Length	5.50″	5.5″	5.5″
Firing Pin	Floating in hammer	Transfer bar	Transfer bar
Price (approx)	$689	$650-$750	$750-$850
Authenticity	Period-correct with modern CNC	Traditional but less CNC precision	Modern design, not period-correct

FAQ

What is the Pietta HF45CHS512NM 1873 Great Western II Californian chambered in?

It is chambered in .45 Colt (Long Colt), a classic caliber that offers manageable recoil and plenty of power for target shooting or cowboy action.

Is this revolver safe to carry with all six chambers loaded?

Yes, the floating firing pin in the hammer prevents accidental discharge if the hammer is resting on a loaded chamber. Always follow safe handling practices.

Does the Pietta Great Western II use the same parts as a Colt SAA?

While not interchangeable, the Pietta is a close copy of the Colt Single Action Army, and many aftermarket grips and springs will fit with minor fitting.

How does the finish hold up over time?

The blued barrel and cylinder are durable, but the color case hardened frame can show wear with heavy use. This is normal and adds character to the gun.

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Last updated: April 2026

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