The Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian Revolver: An Icon Reborn

Are you a firearms enthusiast captivated by the spirit of the Old West? Do you participate in cowboy action shooting, seek authentic historical replicas for your collection, or simply appreciate the craftsmanship of a classic single-action revolver? Look no further than the Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian, a firearm meticulously crafted to honor the legacy of the legendary "Peacemaker." This exceptional .45 Colt (LC) revolver, with its distinctive blued steel, vibrant color case hardened frame, and elegant walnut grip, is more than just a gun—it's a tangible piece of history, ready to be wielded by those who understand its profound significance.

Experience the Spirit of the Frontier with a Masterful Reproduction

For anyone asking, "What is the best revolver for cowboy action shooting?" or "Where can I buy a reliable .45 Colt replica that feels authentic?", the Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian stands as a definitive answer. Produced by F. LLI Pietta, a renowned Italian manufacturer celebrated for their high-quality historical firearms, this model is a faithful reproduction of the iconic Colt Single Action Army, first introduced in 1873. Its design captures the essence of the frontier, making it an indispensable tool for re-enactors, competitive shooters, and collectors alike.

This revolver isn't just about aesthetics; it's about performance and heritage. It allows you to step back in time, experiencing the tactile feedback and robust reliability that defined firearms of that era. Whether you're aiming for accuracy at the range, competing in Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) events, or simply appreciating a finely made firearm, the Pietta 1873 GW2 Californian delivers an unparalleled experience.

Unpacking the Distinctive Features of the Pietta 1873 GW2 Californian

Every element of the Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian is designed with precision and historical accuracy in mind, making it a truly exceptional firearm.

Blued Steel Barrel & Cylinder: Classic Aesthetic and Durability

The 4.75-inch blued steel barrel and cylinder are hallmarks of classic firearm design. The deep bluing provides a rich, dark finish that not only enhances the revolver's visual appeal but also offers a layer of protection against corrosion. This traditional finish is highly prized by collectors and ensures the firearm maintains its elegant appearance for years to come. The 4.75-inch barrel length strikes an ideal balance, providing sufficient sight radius for accuracy while maintaining the quick handling characteristics favored by cowboy action shooters and historical enthusiasts. The six-round capacity of the cylinder faithfully adheres to the original design, offering ample firepower for its intended uses.

Color Case Hardened Steel Frame: A Mark of Authenticity and Strength

Perhaps the most striking feature of the Pietta 1873 GW2 Californian is its color case hardened steel frame. This artisanal process, involving heating the steel in a carbon-rich environment and then rapidly quenching it, creates a unique, mottled rainbow pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays. Each frame is distinct, making every revolver a one-of-a-kind piece. Beyond its undeniable beauty, case hardening significantly increases the surface hardness of the steel, providing exceptional durability and resistance to wear. This authentic finishing technique is crucial for anyone seeking a historically accurate reproduction.

Walnut Grip: Ergonomics Meets Elegance

The genuine walnut grip is not merely an aesthetic choice; it contributes significantly to the revolver's ergonomics and feel. Walnut is renowned for its strength, durability, and natural beauty, featuring attractive grain patterns. The smooth, contoured design of the grip fits comfortably in the hand, providing a secure and natural hold that is vital for accurate shooting and safe handling. The classic look of the walnut perfectly complements the blued steel and case-hardened frame, culminating in a firearm that is as pleasing to hold as it is to behold.

Why Choose the .45 Colt (LC) Caliber?

The choice of .45 Colt (LC) for this revolver is no coincidence. The .45 Long Colt cartridge itself is steeped in American history, having been the standard military sidearm cartridge for decades following its introduction with the Colt Single Action Army in 1873.

• Historical Accuracy: For those seeking the most authentic experience, the .45 Colt is the quintessential caliber for an 1873 SAA replica.
• Versatility: The .45 Colt is a powerful and versatile cartridge, suitable for a range of applications from target shooting and plinking to competition. Its relatively low recoil in a full-sized revolver makes it manageable for most shooters, while its substantial bullet weight delivers satisfying impact.
• Reloading Potential: The .45 Colt is a favorite among handloaders, offering a wide array of bullet weights and powder charges, allowing shooters to tailor ammunition to their specific needs and preferences, whether for light competition loads or more robust plinking rounds.
• Availability: While not as ubiquitous as some modern calibers, .45 Colt ammunition is readily available from various manufacturers, ensuring you can always find suitable rounds for your Pietta revolver.

Real-World Applications and Use Cases

The Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian isn't just an ornamental piece; it's a functional firearm built for enjoyment and practical application.

• Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS): This revolver is a prime choice for participants in cowboy action shooting events. Its authentic design, smooth action, and robust construction make it perfectly suited for the rapid-fire, target-based challenges of competitive scenarios. The 4.75-inch barrel is a popular choice among CAS shooters for its balance of speed and accuracy.
• Historical Reenactments: For living history enthusiasts and re-enactors, owning a faithful replica like the Pietta 1873 GW2 Californian adds an unparalleled layer of authenticity to their portrayal of the Old West era. Its detailed finish and historical accuracy ensure a realistic appearance.
• Sport Shooting and Plinking: Whether you're honing your marksmanship at the range or enjoying casual plinking, the single-action mechanism offers a deliberate and satisfying shooting experience. The crisp trigger pull and natural pointability make it an excellent choice for improving fundamental shooting skills.
• Collecting and Display: For firearm collectors, the Pietta 1873 GW2 Californian represents a significant piece of American firearm history, expertly reproduced. Its stunning blued and case-hardened finishes, combined with the classic walnut grips, make it a beautiful display piece that will be a focal point of any collection.

Maintaining Your Pietta 1873 Revolver

To ensure your Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian remains a cherished and reliable firearm for generations, proper care and maintenance are essential.

1. Regular Cleaning: After every use, thoroughly clean the bore, chambers, and all moving parts to remove powder residue, lead fouling, and dirt. Use a quality solvent and a cleaning rod with appropriate brushes and patches.
2. Lubrication: Lightly oil all moving parts, including the cylinder pin, hammer pivot, and trigger assembly, with a high-quality firearm lubricant. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt.
3. Protecting Finishes:
   • Blued Steel: Apply a thin layer of rust preventative oil to blued surfaces. Wipe down with a silicone-treated cloth. Avoid excessive handling without gloves, as oils from skin can cause rust.
   • Color Case Hardening: This finish is more porous than bluing. It requires consistent care with a rust preventative oil or a good quality wax designed for firearms. Never use harsh abrasives or strong solvents on case-hardened surfaces, as they can strip the finish.
4. Storage: Store your revolver in a cool, dry place, ideally in a padded gun case or a humidity-controlled gun safe. Ensure it is unloaded and stored safely away from unauthorized access.
5. Ammunition Choice: Always use ammunition that is compatible with your revolver's caliber (.45 Colt) and designed for modern firearms. While the original 1873 revolvers were designed for black powder, Pietta reproductions are typically safe for modern smokeless powder loads within SAAMI specifications. Consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

By following these simple maintenance guidelines, you will preserve the beauty, functionality, and historical integrity of your Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian.

The Pietta Promise: Quality and Authenticity

F. LLI Pietta has earned a stellar reputation in the firearms world for their commitment to producing historically accurate and reliable reproductions. When you choose a Pietta firearm, you are investing in:

• Italian Craftsmanship: Leveraging generations of gun-making expertise, Pietta firearms are known for their attention to detail and robust construction.
• Historical Accuracy: Every effort is made to replicate the dimensions, mechanisms, and finishes of the original historical firearms.
• Reliability: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use, Pietta revolvers are not just showpieces; they are designed to perform.
• Value: Offering an exceptional balance of quality, authenticity, and affordability, Pietta revolvers represent a smart choice for both novice and experienced shooters and collectors.

The Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian is more than a firearm; it is a gateway to the past, a symbol of American ruggedness, and a testament to enduring design. It embodies the legacy of the single-action revolver, bringing the frontier spirit directly into your hands.

This extraordinary firearm, along with a wide selection of related accessories and ammunition, is readily available to enthusiasts. When you're ready to own a piece of history that performs as beautifully as it looks, the Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian is the ideal choice. Explore this classic and discover why it remains a favorite among discerning shooters and collectors.

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Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian Specifications

Feature	Description
Model	Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	4.75 Inches
Frame Material	Color Case Hardened Steel
Barrel/Cylinder	Blued Steel
Grip Material	Walnut
Product UPC	641996211201
Availability	Exclusively at DEGuns.com