The Enduring Legacy: Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt Nickel Revolver

For enthusiasts of American history, competitive shooters, and discerning collectors, the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman revolver in .45 Colt with a radiant nickel finish and a 4.75-inch barrel stands as a paragon of classic firearm design reimagined for the modern era. This six-shot, single-action masterpiece, bearing the model number 555121, is not merely a firearm; it's a tangible link to the Wild West, a testament to enduring craftsmanship, and a top-tier choice for those who demand both historical accuracy and robust performance.

Are you searching for a reliable, historically authentic single-action revolver that delivers consistent performance? Do you participate in Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) and need a durable, period-correct sidearm that can withstand the rigors of competition? Or perhaps you're a collector keen on adding a high-quality reproduction of the iconic Colt Single Action Army to your display? The Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman addresses all these needs and more, offering a meticulously crafted experience that echoes the spirit of the frontier while delivering the precision and durability expected by today’s shooters.

Unrivaled Quality: The Forged Frame Advantage

What truly sets the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman apart in a crowded field of reproductions? Its foundation: a superior forged steel frame. Unlike many contemporary replicas that utilize less expensive cast frames, Taylors & Company commits to the original, robust manufacturing technique of forging. But why is a forged frame so significant?

• Superior Strength and Durability: Forging aligns the steel's grain structure, eliminating internal voids and creating a stronger, more resilient frame. This process results in a part that can better withstand the stresses of repeated firing, particularly crucial for calibers like the .45 Colt.
• Enhanced Longevity: A forged frame significantly extends the lifespan of the revolver, making it a reliable companion for years of recreational shooting, competitive events, or simply enjoying a piece of history.
• Ideal for Competitive Shooting: For those who put hundreds, even thousands, of rounds through their firearms annually in disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting, the forged frame offers peace of mind, ensuring the revolver maintains its integrity and performance under demanding conditions. It means less wear and tear over time, translating to a more reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.
• Historical Accuracy: The original Colt Single Action Army was built with a forged frame, and Taylors & Company's commitment to this method reflects an unwavering dedication to historical authenticity, appealing deeply to purists and collectors.

This commitment to quality means that when you handle a Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman, you're experiencing a level of build quality that often surpasses other modern reproductions, making it a truly valuable investment for serious enthusiasts.

Aesthetic Brilliance: The Nickel-Plated Finish

The gleaming, full nickel-plated finish of this 1873 Cattleman model immediately captures attention. Beyond its stunning visual appeal, the nickel finish offers several practical advantages that contributed to its popularity in the late 19th century and remain relevant today:

• Exceptional Corrosion Resistance: Nickel plating provides a robust barrier against rust, corrosion, and the elements, making it ideal for use in various environments and simplifying long-term storage.
• Ease of Maintenance: Unlike blued finishes which can show fingerprints and require careful oiling to prevent rust, nickel is remarkably easy to clean and maintain its luster. A quick wipe-down after handling or shooting is often all that's needed to keep it looking pristine.
• Distinctive Historical Look: Nickel-plated revolvers were a status symbol and a practical choice for many in the Old West. This finish authentically recreates that period aesthetic, with charcoal blued screws providing a tasteful, contrasting accent that highlights the revolver's classic lines.
• Durability: The plating itself is hard and resistant to scratches, helping to preserve the firearm's appearance even with regular use.

This combination of beauty and resilience makes the nickel-plated Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman a truly standout piece, equally at home on a collector's display as it is in a fast-draw holster.

The Heart of the West: .45 Colt (Long Colt) Caliber

Chambered in the iconic .45 Colt (often referred to as .45 LC), this revolver embraces a caliber synonymous with the American frontier. Developed in 1872 for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, the .45 Colt cartridge became legendary for its power and effectiveness. What makes this caliber a preferred choice for the 1873 Cattleman?

• Historical Accuracy: The .45 Colt was the primary military and civilian cartridge for the Colt SAA, making it the most historically correct chambering for a reproduction of this firearm.
• Powerful and Effective: Known for its substantial power and large-diameter bullet, the .45 Colt delivers significant energy, making it suitable for both target shooting and, historically, self-defense against various threats.
• Manageable Recoil: While powerful, the large frame and weight of the 1873 Cattleman, combined with modern ammunition, make the recoil surprisingly manageable for most shooters, allowing for enjoyable extended shooting sessions.
• Versatility: A wide range of .45 Colt ammunition is available, from light cowboy loads designed for competition to more robust self-defense and hunting rounds, offering versatility for different applications.

For anyone seeking to fully immerse themselves in the historical shooting experience, or participate in events where period-correct ammunition is appreciated, the .45 Colt chambering is indispensable.

Ergonomics and Sighting: Designed for Precision and Comfort

The Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman is designed for both intuitive handling and effective aiming. Its specifications speak to a carefully considered balance of form and function:

• 4.75-inch Barrel: This barrel length strikes an excellent balance, offering a compact profile for quicker handling and holstering while retaining sufficient sight radius for accurate shooting. It's a popular choice for both competitive shooters and those who appreciate the classic "Gunfighter" length.
• One-Piece Navy Size Walnut Grip: The grip is crafted from beautiful walnut, providing a classic look and a comfortable, secure hold. The "Navy size" refers to the contour, which is generally slender and allows for a positive grip, facilitating quick presentation and intuitive pointing. Its natural wood grain enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the revolver.
• Fixed Sights: Staying true to the original 1873 design, this Cattleman features a fixed blade front sight paired with a notched rear sight. While fixed, these sights are robust and surprisingly effective for the ranges typically associated with single-action revolver shooting, particularly in disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting where speed and consistency are key.

With an overall length of 10.30 inches and a weight of 39.20 ounces, the revolver feels substantial yet balanced in hand, contributing to a stable shooting platform.

Who Benefits Most from the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman?

This revolver is a prime candidate for several distinct groups of firearm enthusiasts:

Cowboy Action Shooters

For participants in Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) – a rapidly growing sport that combines marksmanship with a passion for the Old West – the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman is an outstanding choice. Its forged frame provides the durability needed for high-volume competition, while its historical accuracy, .45 Colt chambering, and classic single-action operation align perfectly with SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) rules and aesthetics. Its reliability and smooth action are critical for competitive advantage.

Historical Firearm Collectors

Serious collectors of historical firearms or high-quality reproductions will appreciate the meticulous attention to detail and authenticity. The forged frame, period-correct finish, and precise replication of the original 1873 Colt Single Action Army design make this Cattleman a valuable addition to any collection, representing a pivotal era in American history.

Recreational Shooters & Enthusiasts

If you simply enjoy the experience of shooting a classic single-action revolver, connecting with the romance of the Old West, this model offers an incredibly rewarding experience. Its ease of maintenance, robust construction, and enjoyable shooting characteristics make it a fantastic choice for a day at the range or as a centerpiece of your firearm collection.

Those Seeking a Durable, Reliable .45 Colt Revolver

Beyond specific disciplines, anyone looking for a rugged, dependable .45 Colt revolver for general target practice or for experiencing the unique joy of a single-action firearm will find the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman to be an exceptional performer. Its reputation for quality ensures it will be a reliable companion for years to come.

Maintaining Your Taylors & Company Nickel-Plated Revolver

Proper care ensures your 1873 Cattleman remains in pristine condition for generations. While nickel finishes are durable, a few simple steps are recommended:

1. Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, clean the bore, cylinder chambers, and action. Use appropriate bore cleaner and brushes for .45 Colt.
2. Nickel Finish Care: Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints and residue. For tougher grime, a mild cleaner designed for nickel or chrome finishes can be used sparingly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the plating.
3. Lubrication: Apply a light coat of high-quality gun oil to internal moving parts, following the manufacturer's recommendations for lubrication points. Be sparing, as excessive oil can attract dirt.
4. Storage: Store the revolver in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. A padded gun case or a humidity-controlled safe is ideal. Avoid storing in soft cases that can trap moisture.

By following these simple guidelines, your Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman will retain its stunning appearance and smooth operation for decades.

The Taylor's & Co. Difference

Taylors & Company has built a sterling reputation on its commitment to producing historically accurate and exceptionally high-quality firearms. They are renowned for their attention to detail, their use of premium materials, and their dedication to the original spirit of the firearms they reproduce. Their Model 1873 Cattleman is a prime example of this philosophy in action, combining the allure of a bygone era with the reliability and durability demanded by today's shooters.

When considering a purchase, remember the unique value proposition that Taylors & Company brings: a blend of genuine craftsmanship, historical fidelity, and robust performance. This is not just a replica; it's a meticulously engineered piece of history built for the modern enthusiast. Whether for competition, collecting, or recreational shooting, the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman is a testament to the enduring appeal of the single-action revolver.

Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman Key Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Taylors & Company
Category	Revolvers
Series	Cattleman
Model	1873
Caliber	.45 Colt (Long Colt)
Barrel Length	4.75"
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action	Single Action Only (SAO)
Finish	Nickel-Plated (Overall)
Frame Material	Steel (Forged)
Grips	Walnut
Sights	Fixed Front / Notched Rear
Overall Length	10.30"
Weight	39.20 oz
Hammer Style	Exposed