The Enduring Legacy of the Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall Revolver: A Comprehensive Guide

For those who cherish the rich heritage of the American West and seek to experience the thrill of classic firearms, the Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall revolver stands as an exceptional choice. This meticulously crafted single-action revolver, chambered in the versatile .357 Magnum with a 6-round capacity, a 5.50-inch matte blued steel barrel, and a refined walnut grip, is more than just a firearm; it's a piece of living history, designed for discerning shooters and collectors alike. But what makes this specific model so compelling, and for whom is it the ideal companion?

Unveiling the Old Randall: A Timeless Design for Modern Enthusiasts

The Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall draws its inspiration from the iconic revolvers that shaped the frontier. It embodies a design philosophy centered on reliability, robust construction, and an unmistakable aesthetic that speaks volumes about a bygone era. For individuals searching for the quintessential single-action revolver experience, this model answers a fundamental need: to own and operate a firearm that feels authentic, performs consistently, and serves as a tangible link to historical marksmanship.

Who Will Appreciate the Old Randall 0396?

This revolver is particularly suited for a diverse range of firearm enthusiasts:

• Cowboy Action Shooters: Is the Taylors & Company Old Randall a good choice for competitive shooting? Absolutely. Its traditional single-action mechanism, balance, and classic aesthetics make it a perfect fit for the stringent requirements of Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) events. Competitors often look for a revolver that offers a smooth trigger pull, predictable handling, and durability to withstand the rigors of frequent use, all of which the Old Randall delivers.
• Historical Firearm Collectors: How can I add a truly authentic piece to my collection? The 0396 Old Randall offers a faithful reproduction of a classic design, appealing to collectors who value historical accuracy and superior craftsmanship without the prohibitive cost of genuine antiques. Its matte blued finish and genuine walnut grips contribute significantly to its historical allure.
• Target Shooters and Recreational Plinkers: Looking for an enjoyable and challenging shooting experience at the range? The single-action nature encourages deliberate aim and focused technique, making it an excellent tool for improving marksmanship. The .357 Magnum chambering, coupled with its ability to safely fire milder .38 Special ammunition, provides incredible versatility for various shooting activities and recoil preferences.
• First-Time Revolver Owners (with proper training): While a single-action revolver requires a different manual of arms than modern semi-automatics, its simplicity and inherent safety features (when handled correctly) can make it a rewarding choice for new shooters under expert guidance. The clear, crisp single-action trigger pull is often easier to master for accuracy than heavier double-action pulls.
• Those Seeking a Reliable and Durable Companion: What constitutes a dependable revolver? The Taylors & Company Old Randall’s construction from high-quality steel components ensures longevity and consistent performance, even with regular use. This is a firearm built to last for generations.

In-Depth Exploration of Key Features: Craftsmanship Meets Performance

The Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall is a testament to thoughtful design and quality manufacturing. Each feature contributes to its overall appeal and functionality:

• Caliber Versatility: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
  • The Power of .357 Magnum: When to use .357 Magnum ammunition? The .357 Magnum cartridge offers significant power, making it suitable for larger game hunting (where legal and appropriate), or for those who desire a robust shooting experience. Its ballistic capabilities provide ample energy for various applications.
  • The Comfort of .38 Special: How does a .38 Special improve my shooting experience? One of the most significant advantages of the .357 Magnum chambering is its complete compatibility with .38 Special ammunition. The .38 Special is a milder round, producing less recoil and muzzle blast, which is ideal for extended range sessions, training new shooters, or simply enjoying a more comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing the classic revolver feel. This dual-caliber capability makes the 0396 Old Randall incredibly versatile and cost-effective for practice.
• Barrel Length: 5.50 Inches
  • Balancing Act: Why choose a 5.50-inch barrel? This particular barrel length strikes an excellent balance between portability, maneuverability, and ballistic performance. It provides enough sight radius for accurate shooting at typical handgun distances, while still being manageable for quick handling. For Cowboy Action Shooting, this length is often preferred for its swift presentation from a holster. It also contributes to better velocity and energy transfer for the .357 Magnum cartridge compared to shorter barrels.
• Finish: Matte Blued Steel
  • Durability and Aesthetics: What are the benefits of a blued steel finish? The matte blued finish on the Old Randall’s steel frame and barrel is a classic choice for firearms, offering both traditional aesthetics and practical protection. Bluing is a passivation process that provides a degree of corrosion resistance and a non-reflective, elegant appearance. The matte nature of this bluing reduces glare, which can be beneficial in outdoor shooting environments, and gives the firearm a rugged, purposeful look that complements its historical design.
• Grip: Walnut
  • Ergonomics and Feel: How does the walnut grip enhance the revolver? The choice of genuine walnut for the grip is not just about aesthetics; it’s about heritage and function. Walnut is renowned for its strength, durability, and natural beauty. The contoured shape of the grip is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, providing a secure hold that helps in managing recoil, particularly when firing the more powerful .357 Magnum rounds. The natural grain of the wood also adds a unique character to each individual revolver.
• Action Type: Single Action Only
  • The Essence of the Old West: What defines a single-action revolver? The single-action mechanism means that the hammer must be manually cocked before each shot can be fired. This distinct "click-clack" of the hammer being drawn back is an iconic sound of the Old West. This mechanism contributes to a lighter, crisper trigger pull, which is highly advantageous for precision shooting. It also forces a more deliberate and controlled approach to firing, emphasizing safety and marksmanship fundamentals.
• Cylinder Capacity: 6 Rounds
  • Traditional and Reliable: Why is a 6-round cylinder common for revolvers? The 6-round capacity is the traditional standard for this type of revolver, reflecting historical accuracy and simplicity. This reliable design minimizes mechanical complexity, contributing to the Old Randall’s reputation for robust performance.

Why Choose Taylors & Company? A Mark of Excellence

Taylors & Company is a name synonymous with quality and authenticity in the world of historical firearms reproductions. With decades of experience, they have established themselves as a leading importer and distributor of some of the finest historical firearms on the market. Their commitment to working with reputable manufacturers ensures that each firearm, including the 0396 Old Randall, meets stringent standards for craftsmanship, reliability, and historical accuracy. When you choose a Taylors & Company product, you are investing in a firearm that embodies tradition while offering the performance and safety expected by modern shooters. Their reputation is built on delivering firearms that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also fully functional and dependable, making them a trusted choice for those seeking to own a piece of the past.

Maintaining Your Old Randall: Preserving a Legacy

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall.

• Cleaning: How often should I clean my revolver? It's recommended to clean your revolver after every shooting session. Use a high-quality bore solvent, bore brush, patches, and a cleaning rod to remove powder residue from the barrel and cylinder chambers. A nylon brush can help with cleaning the frame and cylinder face.
• Lubrication: What lubricants should I use? Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, especially the hammer, trigger mechanism, and cylinder pin. Avoid over-lubricating, as it can attract dirt and debris.
• Storage: Where should I store my firearm? Store your Old Randall in a cool, dry place, ideally in a humidity-controlled safe or cabinet, to prevent rust and corrosion, especially on the blued finish. A silicone-treated gun sock can offer additional protection.
• Inspections: Regularly inspect your revolver for any signs of wear, damage, or loose screws. Address any issues promptly by consulting a qualified gunsmith if needed.

Ammunition Considerations for the Old Randall 0396

Understanding your ammunition is key to a safe and enjoyable shooting experience with the Old Randall.

• .357 Magnum: Offers potent performance. For target shooting, full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds are often economical. For self-defense or hunting (where appropriate), jacketed hollow points (JHP) provide significant expansion. Always use ammunition manufactured to SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute) specifications.
• .38 Special: Available in a wide variety of loads, from light target loads (often referred to as ".38 Special Wadcutters") to more powerful "+P" defensive loads. The Old Randall handles standard .38 Special loads with ease, providing a softer shooting experience ideal for extended practice sessions.
• Never Use .357 SIG: It's critical to note that the .357 Magnum is a different cartridge from the .357 SIG. The latter is a bottlenecked, high-pressure semi-automatic pistol cartridge and is not compatible with revolvers chambered for .357 Magnum. Always double-check your ammunition to ensure it matches the markings on your firearm.

Finding Your Taylors & Company Old Randall

The Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall revolver is a prized possession for anyone who values classic American firearms and the legacy they represent. For those interested in acquiring this exceptional piece of craftsmanship, you can find the Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall revolver available through reputable firearm retailers like DEGuns.com. DEGuns is a trusted source for a wide array of firearms, offering convenient access to high-quality models such as the Old Randall, ensuring you receive a genuine product with reliable service.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy in Your Hands

The Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall revolver is more than a tool; it's an experience. It offers a tangible connection to the past, a rewarding challenge for shooters, and a beautiful addition to any collection. Its blend of historical accuracy, robust construction, and versatile performance makes it an outstanding choice for anyone asking, "What is the best single-action revolver for a blend of historical authenticity and modern reliability?" This revolver answers that question with a resounding "The Old Randall." Its elegant blued steel, comfortable walnut grip, and the flexibility to fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition ensure that it will be a cherished firearm for years to come, offering countless hours of enjoyment at the range or as a centerpiece of a historical collection.

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Taylors & Company 0396 Old Randall Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Old Randall (0396)
Caliber	.357 Magnum
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	5.50 Inches
Finish	Matte Blued Steel
Grip Material	Walnut
Action Type	Single Action Only