Uberti El Patrón Bisley .45 Long Colt Revolver: The Ultimate Tuned Single-Action for Competition and Collectors

For those who appreciate the rich tapestry of firearm history and demand peak performance in competitive shooting, the Uberti El Patrón Bisley in .45 Long Colt with a 4.75-inch barrel stands as a masterful blend of tradition and modern tuning. This isn't just a revolver; it's a meticulously crafted homage to an iconic design, optimized to excel in demanding scenarios like Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) and precision target practice. If you've ever asked, "What's the best single-action revolver for competitive shooting?" or "Where can I find a historically accurate yet high-performance .45 LC pistol?", the Uberti El Patrón Bisley is an answer worth exploring.

The Storied Legacy of the Bisley Design: A Target Pistol by Birth

The original Bisley model, first introduced by Colt in 1894, was a revolutionary departure from its progenitor, the Colt Single Action Army. Designed specifically as a target pistol, its creation was spurred by the prestigious British Commonwealth Championship Match held in Bisley, England. Shooters at the time sought a more refined and ergonomically superior revolver for precision shooting, and the Bisley delivered. Its distinguishing features were immediately apparent: a significantly longer grip-frame that offered a more natural, hand-filling purchase, which aided in recoil management and consistent aiming, and a lower-profile, wide target hammer designed for easier, more precise cocking and reduced drag during rapid firing.

Between 1894 and 1915, over 40,000 original Colt Bisleys were manufactured, solidifying its reputation as a serious target arm. Its unique ergonomics provided a distinct advantage in accuracy and shooter comfort, making it a favorite among competitive marksmen of its era. The Bisley's design philosophy was clear: optimize for control, aiming, and repeatable performance, elements that remain crucial for shooters today. Uberti, renowned for its commitment to historical authenticity and precision engineering, meticulously recreates this legendary design, ensuring that the spirit and functionality of the original are preserved and enhanced for the modern enthusiast.

What Makes an Uberti El Patrón Bisley Stand Out? The "Factory Custom-Tuned" Advantage

The "El Patrón" designation by Uberti is not merely a name; it signifies a commitment to superior performance right out of the box. While all Uberti firearms are known for their quality, the El Patrón series represents their pinnacle of factory custom-tuning. This means each revolver undergoes a meticulous process by skilled gunsmiths who optimize various critical components to deliver an exceptionally smooth and reliable action.

Here’s what you gain with an El Patrón model:

• Precision-Tuned Action: The internal mechanisms are carefully honed to reduce friction and provide a crisp, light, and fast trigger pull. This level of tuning is crucial for competitive shooters who need rapid, consistent firing, and it significantly enhances accuracy by minimizing shooter-induced movement during the trigger break.
• Wolff® Springs: A cornerstone of the El Patrón's enhanced performance is the integration of high-grade, U.S.-manufactured Wolff® springs. These are not standard factory springs but are specifically chosen for their optimal tension and durability. Wolff springs contribute directly to the light and smooth action, making the hammer easier to cock and the trigger pull incredibly consistent, shot after shot. This upgrade is often a first modification for serious single-action shooters, but with the El Patrón, it's already done for you by the factory.
• Certified Fit and Function: Every El Patrón revolver is rigorously tested and certified for both fit and function. This rigorous quality control ensures that each component works harmoniously, leading to a level of reliability and consistency that is paramount for both competitive scenarios and general recreational shooting. You can trust that this revolver will perform when it counts.

This factory custom-tuning addresses common desires among single-action enthusiasts, namely, "How can I make my revolver smoother?" and "What modifications improve shooting speed and accuracy?" The El Patrón line provides these enhancements directly from the manufacturer, saving shooters time and additional gunsmithing costs.

In-Depth Look at the Uberti El Patrón Bisley's Key Features

The Uberti El Patrón Bisley (Model Number: 346120) is thoughtfully designed with features that enhance both its historical authenticity and its modern performance capabilities.

1. Frame Finishes: Blued Steel with Case-Hardened Frame or Stainless Steel
   • Color Case-Hardened Frame: This traditional finish is a hallmark of classic firearms and a favorite among collectors and traditionalists. The unique, marbled patterns of blues, purples, and browns on the frame are a result of a specialized heat-treating process that not only creates a stunning aesthetic but also provides a durable, hardened surface. This finish is a direct nod to the historical Bisley models and offers a beautiful contrast with the blued barrel and cylinder. It speaks to the craftsmanship of the piece and its connection to the past.
   • Stainless Steel Frame (Optional, not specified for this specific UPC but a common Uberti offering): While the listed model for UPC 037084461205 features a blued and case-hardened frame, it’s worth noting that some Bisley variants may come in stainless steel. A stainless steel frame offers superior corrosion resistance and a contemporary, uniform appearance. It's often preferred by shooters in humid climates or those who prioritize ease of maintenance, though it lacks the historic appeal of case-hardening.
2. Numbered Cylinders: Each cylinder on the El Patrón Bisley is individually numbered. This detail is not just for aesthetics; it signifies a higher level of precision manufacturing and quality control. Numbered cylinders often indicate that each cylinder was precisely fitted to the frame, ensuring optimal alignment with the barrel for superior accuracy and smooth rotation. It’s a mark of a well-made revolver where attention to detail extends to every critical component.
3. Steel Backstraps and Trigger Guards: Unlike some replicas that might use lighter alloys, the Uberti El Patrón Bisley features solid steel backstraps and trigger guards. This choice of material contributes significantly to the revolver's overall weight, balance, and durability. The added weight helps in absorbing recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more comfortable. The solid steel construction also enhances the longevity of the revolver, ensuring that these high-stress areas withstand years of use without wear or deformation.
4. Checkered Walnut Grips: The grips are crafted from high-quality walnut and feature traditional checkering. Walnut is renowned for its strength, beautiful grain, and classic appearance in firearm furniture. The checkering provides a secure, non-slip purchase on the pistol, even with sweaty hands, improving control and safety during rapid firing or under competitive pressure. The longer Bisley grip-frame, combined with these ergonomic grips, ensures a comfortable and stable hold, critical for repeatable accuracy.
5. Wide, Easy-View Front and Rear Sights: True to its target pistol heritage, the El Patrón Bisley is equipped with sights designed for clarity and rapid acquisition. The "wide, easy-view" designation refers to the generous dimensions of both the front blade and the rear notch. This wider sight picture allows for quicker alignment of the sights with the target, especially beneficial in dynamic shooting sports like Cowboy Action Shooting where speed is paramount. It also aids in low-light conditions and for shooters who might have less-than-perfect vision, providing a clear and unambiguous sight picture that enhances aiming precision.

Caliber and Barrel Length: .45 Long Colt with a 4.75" Barrel

Caliber: .45 Long Colt
The .45 Long Colt (.45 LC) is an iconic American cartridge, introduced in 1872, originally for the Colt Single Action Army revolver. Its historical significance cannot be overstated, having been the cartridge of choice for frontiersmen, lawmen, and soldiers throughout the American West. Today, it remains incredibly popular, especially among single-action revolver enthusiasts and Cowboy Action Shooters, for several reasons:

• Historical Authenticity: Shooting a .45 LC in a revolver like the Bisley replica provides an authentic experience true to the Old West.
• Versatility: It's a powerful cartridge capable of handling a variety of tasks, from competitive shooting and target practice to small-to-medium game hunting (where legal and appropriate).
• Recoil Characteristics: While powerful, the .45 LC's recoil in a full-sized steel frame revolver like the Bisley is generally manageable, often described as a firm push rather than a sharp snap, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
• Reloading Potential: For those who reload ammunition, the .45 LC offers excellent flexibility, allowing for custom loads tailored for specific purposes, from light target loads to more robust hunting rounds.

Barrel Length: 4.75"
The 4.75-inch barrel length strikes an optimal balance for a single-action revolver. It is short enough to be highly maneuverable, making it quick to draw from a holster and easy to handle in fast-paced shooting competitions. This length also reduces the overall weight compared to longer barrels, contributing to quicker transitions between targets. Despite its relatively compact size, a 4.75-inch barrel still provides a sufficient sight radius for accurate shooting at typical pistol ranges and allows the .45 LC cartridge to achieve respectable ballistic performance. It's a pragmatic choice for a revolver that needs to be both fast and accurate. The Uberti El Patrón Bisley with this barrel length is designed for practical field use as much as it is for target enjoyment.

Who is the Uberti El Patrón Bisley .45 LC For?

This exceptionally tuned revolver is an ideal choice for a diverse range of shooters and collectors:

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS): The El Patrón Bisley is a top-tier choice for CAS competitors. Its smooth, light, and fast action, combined with the ergonomic Bisley grip and easy-view sights, provides a significant competitive edge. The .45 Long Colt caliber is a staple in CAS, and the revolver's reliability ensures consistent performance through multiple stages. For those asking, "Which revolver will give me an advantage in Cowboy Action Shooting?", this model should be at the top of their list.
• Target Shooters: Building on the original Bisley's legacy as a target pistol, Uberti's El Patrón rendition offers excellent accuracy potential. The tuned action and clear sights facilitate precise shot placement, making it suitable for recreational target shooting or even some pistol competitions.
• Historical Firearm Enthusiasts & Collectors: For those fascinated by the history of the American West and classic firearms, the Uberti Bisley offers an authentic and high-quality reproduction. The attention to detail, from the color case-hardened frame to the specific grip design, makes it a valuable addition to any collection. It allows enthusiasts to own and shoot a piece of history without the prohibitive cost or fragility of an antique original.
• Recreational Shooters: If you simply enjoy the unique experience of shooting a single-action revolver, the El Patrón Bisley provides a refined and enjoyable experience. Its smooth action and comfortable ergonomics make it a pleasure to shoot at the range, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era of firearms.

Owning and Maintaining Your Uberti El Patrón Bisley

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to preserve the beauty and functionality of your Uberti El Patrón Bisley. For models with the blued and color case-hardened finish, it's particularly important to keep the surfaces lightly oiled to prevent rust, as these finishes are more susceptible to corrosion than stainless steel. Regular cleaning after each use, focusing on the bore, cylinder chambers, and action, will ensure continued smooth operation and accuracy. The robust steel construction, coupled with Uberti's quality manufacturing, means that with appropriate care, this revolver will provide generations of reliable service and enjoyment. Its durable nature makes it a reliable companion for both the range and the competitive arena, ensuring that the legacy of the Bisley design endures.

Feature	Description	Details
Model Name	Bisley El Patrón	Factory custom-tuned for enhanced performance
Manufacturer	Uberti	Renowned for authentic historical firearm replicas
Caliber	.45 Long Colt	Classic American cartridge, versatile for various uses
Barrel Length	4.75 inches	Balanced for maneuverability, sight radius, and ballistics
Frame Material	Blued Steel with Color Case-Hardened Frame	Traditional finish, durable, and aesthetically rich
Grips	Checkered Walnut	Ergonomic, secure hold, classic appearance
Sights	Wide, Easy-View Front and Rear	Aids in rapid target acquisition and precision aiming
Internal Springs	High-Grade Wolff® Springs (U.S.-manufactured)	Contributes to smooth, light, and fast action
Cylinders	Numbered Cylinders	Indicates precision fitting and quality control
Backstrap/Guard	Steel Backstrap and Trigger Guard	Enhances durability, balance, and recoil management
SKU	346120	Unique product identifier
UPC	037084461205	Universal Product Code for retail identification