The Enduring Legacy of the Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter: A True Western Icon

Are you an enthusiast of the Old West, a dedicated Cowboy Action Shooter, or simply someone who appreciates the timeless artistry of classic firearms? The Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter chambered in .357 Magnum is a meticulously crafted single-action revolver designed to meet and exceed the expectations of discerning collectors and competitive shooters alike. This iconic reproduction seamlessly blends historical authenticity with modern engineering, offering a shooting experience that is both remarkably accurate and deeply satisfying.

What Makes the Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter an Essential Firearm?

For those seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of the American frontier, or for competitors aiming for peak performance in Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) events, the Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter answers a critical need. It provides a reliable, robust, and aesthetically stunning revolver that is true to its legendary heritage. This isn't just a gun; it's a piece of living history, engineered for performance.

The Heart of a Legend: Understanding the 1873 Single Action Army Legacy

The foundation of this exceptional revolver is the legendary Colt Single Action Army (SAA) design, introduced in 1873. Known affectionately as "The Peacemaker," it quickly became the sidearm of choice for cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws across the American frontier. Its simple, robust design, combined with its undeniable charisma, cemented its place in history. Taylors & Company, renowned for their commitment to historical accuracy and quality craftsmanship, faithfully reproduces this iconic design with the modern shooter in mind. The "5000" model designation signifies a particular configuration within their extensive lineup, reflecting a specific blend of features popular among enthusiasts.

Key Features and Specifications Explored

The Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter boasts a combination of features that make it stand out:

• Caliber: .357 Magnum (and .38 Special Compatible)
  • Versatility Redefined: The .357 Magnum cartridge is celebrated for its power and flat trajectory, making it suitable for a variety of applications from target shooting to small game hunting. Its ability to also chamber and safely fire the lighter-recoiling .38 Special rounds adds incredible versatility. For competitive shooters, .38 Special is often preferred for its reduced recoil and faster follow-up shots, allowing for quicker transitions between targets in demanding CAS stages.
  • Performance: The .357 Magnum delivers significant muzzle energy, ensuring reliable performance. When using .38 Special, shooters benefit from less fatigue during extended range sessions and reduced wear on the firearm. This dual-caliber capability makes the 1873 Gunfighter an incredibly adaptable firearm for various shooting scenarios.
• Capacity: 6 Rounds
  • Classic Authenticity: True to its historical roots, the 1873 Gunfighter maintains the iconic six-round cylinder capacity. This standard capacity is not only historically accurate but also perfectly aligns with the rules and traditions of Cowboy Action Shooting competitions. It provides ample firepower for most recreational and competitive uses without compromising the revolver's slim profile and balanced feel.
• Barrel Length: 5.50 Inches
  • Optimal Balance and Handling: The 5.50-inch barrel length is often considered the ideal compromise for the 1873 SAA platform. It offers an excellent sight radius for accuracy, while remaining agile enough for rapid handling and re-holstering, crucial in timed shooting events. This length contributes to the revolver's overall balance, minimizing muzzle flip and aiding in quick target acquisition. It strikes a perfect equilibrium between the longer 7.5-inch "Cavalry" model and the shorter "Artillery" or "Civilian" models.
• Finish: Blued Cylinder & Barrel with Color Case Hardened Steel Frame
  • Timeless Aesthetics and Durability: The combination of a deep, rich blued finish on the cylinder and barrel with a vibrant color case hardened steel frame is instantly recognizable and historically accurate.
    • Bluing: This traditional finish protects the steel from corrosion while providing a classic, lustrous appearance that deepens with age and use.
    • Color Case Hardening: This intricate metallurgical process involves heating the steel in a carbon-rich environment, then rapidly quenching it. The result is a hardened surface for enhanced durability and a unique, marbled spectrum of blues, purples, yellows, and browns. No two color case hardened frames are exactly alike, making each Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter a unique piece of functional art. This finish is a hallmark of authentic Old West firearms and adds significantly to the revolver's collectible appeal.
• Grip: Walnut Army Size Grip
  • Comfort and Control: The "Army size" grip refers to the larger, fuller grip profile characteristic of the original Colt SAA, designed to provide a comfortable and secure hold for a wide range of hand sizes. Crafted from high-quality walnut, known for its durability and attractive grain, the grip offers both ergonomic comfort and a tactile connection to the revolver's historical origins. Its design allows for a natural pointing ability and excellent recoil absorption, particularly important when firing the more potent .357 Magnum rounds.

The "Gunfighter" Advantage: Precision-Tuned Action

The "Gunfighter" designation in the Taylors & Company 5000 model isn't just a name; it signifies a factory-tuned action specifically optimized for competitive shooting and enhanced performance. This typically includes:

• Lighter Mainspring: A reduced-power mainspring results in a smoother, lighter hammer pull, making the revolver faster and less fatiguing to cock during rapid firing sequences. This is a significant advantage in Cowboy Action Shooting where speed and precision are paramount.
• Smoother Trigger Pull: The action components are meticulously fitted and polished, leading to a crisp, clean trigger break with minimal creep. This translates directly to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience.
• Optimized Hammer Profile: Sometimes, the hammer spur is slightly reshaped or positioned for easier and quicker cocking with the thumb, further enhancing the revolver's "gunfighter" characteristics for rapid, single-action operation.

These enhancements distinguish the Gunfighter model from standard reproductions, offering a significant edge for shooters who demand the utmost in speed and control from their single-action revolver.

Real-World Applications and User Benefits

Who can truly benefit from owning the Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter?

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS): This revolver is a prime choice for members of organizations like the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). Its 5.50-inch barrel is highly favored for its balance and quick handling, while the "Gunfighter" action ensures competitive speed and reliability. The .38 Special compatibility allows for cost-effective practice and competition rounds.
• Historical Reenactors: For those dedicated to authentically portraying the Old West, the 1873 Gunfighter is a near-perfect reproduction. Its period-correct finishes, grip style, and classic design ensure historical accuracy for demonstrations, theatrical performances, or living history events.
• Firearm Collectors: The meticulous craftsmanship, the unique color case hardened frame, and the faithful adherence to the original SAA design make this revolver a highly desirable piece for any collection. Its historical significance combined with Taylors & Company's reputation for quality guarantees its long-term value.
• Recreational Shooters and Enthusiasts: Beyond competition and collecting, the 1873 Gunfighter provides an incredibly enjoyable and engaging shooting experience at the range. Its precise single-action mechanism encourages focused marksmanship, making every shot a deliberate and rewarding act. It's an excellent way to connect with firearm history and develop fundamental shooting skills.

Maintaining Your Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter

Like any fine firearm, proper care and maintenance are crucial to preserve the beauty and functionality of your Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter.

1. Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially when using lead bullets (common for .38 Special), clean the bore, cylinder chambers, and forcing cone thoroughly to remove powder residue and lead fouling. Use appropriate solvents, brushes, and patches.
2. Lubrication: Lightly lubricate moving parts, such as the cylinder pin, hammer pivot, and trigger assembly, with high-quality gun oil. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt and grime.
3. Frame Care: The color case hardened frame, while durable, benefits from occasional wiping with a lightly oiled cloth to protect its finish. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners directly on the case hardening, as they can dull its vibrant patterns.
4. Storage: Store your revolver in a climate-controlled environment, preferably in a silicone-treated gun sock or a padded, moisture-free gun case, to prevent rust and preserve its finishes.

By following these simple guidelines, your Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter will remain a beautiful and reliable companion for generations to come.

Why Choose Taylors & Company for Your 1873 Reproduction?

Taylors & Company has established itself as a premier importer and distributor of historical reproduction firearms. Their reputation is built on:

• Unwavering Quality: They partner with renowned Italian manufacturers, primarily Uberti, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in replicating historical firearms.
• Authenticity: Every firearm is designed to be historically accurate, not just in appearance but also in handling and function, providing a truly immersive experience.
• Dedicated Support: Taylors & Company is committed to supporting their products and customers, ensuring a positive ownership experience.

When you invest in a Taylors & Company firearm, you're not just buying a gun; you're acquiring a piece of history meticulously crafted for the modern era.

Where to Acquire Your Taylors & Company 1873 Gunfighter

For those ready to experience the legendary performance and timeless appeal of the Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter, this exceptional single-action revolver is available at DEGuns. DEGuns offers a comprehensive selection of firearms, ensuring you can find the perfect model to complement your collection or elevate your competitive shooting game. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and extensive inventory make them a trusted source for high-quality firearms.

In conclusion, the Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter in .357 Magnum with its 5.50" blued cylinder and barrel, color case hardened steel frame, and walnut Army size grip represents the pinnacle of Old West revolver reproductions. It's a testament to enduring design, engineered for today's discerning shooter and collector. Whether for competition, reenactment, or simply the joy of owning a piece of history, this revolver delivers unmatched quality and performance.

Feature	Specification	Benefit
Model	Taylors & Company 5000 1873 Gunfighter	Premium, Competition-Ready Reproduction
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Special	Versatile Power and Practice Options
Capacity	6 Rounds	Classic & Competition Standard
Barrel Length	5.50 Inches	Optimal Balance, Accuracy, & Handling
Cylinder & Barrel	Blued Finish	Durable, Traditional Aesthetic
Frame	Color Case Hardened Steel	Unique, Durable, Historically Accurate
Grip	Walnut Army Size	Comfortable, Authentic Feel for All Hands
Action Type	Single Action	Crisp, Precise, Tuned for Speed
Primary Use	Cowboy Action Shooting, Collecting	Designed for Performance & Authenticity
UPC	839665005001	Product Identifier