The Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron: A Premier .45 Colt Revolver for Enthusiasts and Competitors

For those who cherish the timeless appeal of the American Old West, or for competitive shooters seeking an edge in Cowboy Action Shooting, the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron Black Rock .45 Colt revolver stands as an unparalleled choice. This firearm is not merely a replica; it's a meticulously crafted tribute to a legendary design, enhanced with modern reliability and precision. If you’re asking, "What is the best single-action revolver for competitive shooting?" or "Where can I find a high-quality, 'tuned' .45 Colt revolver?", this comprehensive guide will provide the answers. The Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron is engineered to solve the problem of finding a classic firearm that performs flawlessly, offering both historical accuracy and a smooth, reliable action right out of the box.

Unearthing the Legacy: The Allure of the Single-Action Army Style

The single-action revolver holds a revered place in firearm history, inextricably linked with the iconic figures and thrilling sagas of the American frontier. Its simple yet robust design, characterized by the need to cock the hammer manually before each shot, defined an era. Today, the fascination with these firearms endures, fueled by their unique shooting experience, their undeniable aesthetic charm, and their pivotal role in shaping a nation.

The Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron pays homage to this storied past. It embodies the spirit of the original Single Action Army (SAA) revolvers, which were the workhorses of cowboys, lawmen, and soldiers alike. But this is more than just a historical artifact; it's a thoroughly modern interpretation, designed for today's discerning shooter who appreciates both heritage and performance.

Why Choose a Single-Action Revolver?

Many shooters are drawn to single-action revolvers for distinct reasons:

• Historical Connection: They offer a tangible link to the past, allowing shooters to experience a piece of history firsthand.
• Deliberate Shooting: The manual cocking action encourages a more mindful and deliberate shooting style, emphasizing accuracy and precision over rapid fire.
• Aesthetics: The classic lines and balanced proportions of a single-action revolver are undeniably beautiful, making them highly desirable collector's items.
• Simplicity and Reliability: With fewer moving parts than more complex designs, single-action revolvers are often incredibly reliable and easy to maintain.

The Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron takes these inherent advantages and elevates them through superior craftsmanship and critical performance enhancements.

A Closer Look at the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron Black Rock .45 Colt

The specific model we are exploring, the Taylors & Company 654001DE Runnin' Iron Black Rock, is a prime example of thoughtful engineering meeting traditional design. Let’s break down its defining features and understand why they contribute to its exceptional performance and appeal.

Caliber: The Powerful .45 Colt (LC)

The heart of this revolver's ballistic performance lies in its chambering for the formidable .45 Colt (Long Colt) cartridge. Introduced in 1872, the .45 Colt quickly became one of the most popular and effective handgun cartridges of its time, renowned for its stopping power and versatility.

• Historical Significance: The .45 Colt was the original chambering for many of the most famous single-action revolvers, including the Colt Single Action Army, cementing its place in firearms lore.
• Ballistic Performance: It offers substantial power, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from target shooting to hunting small to medium game (where legal and appropriate).
• Reloading Versatility: For handloaders, the .45 Colt offers a wide range of projectile and powder combinations, allowing for customized loads tailored to specific shooting needs, whether light competition loads or heavier field loads.
• Recoil Management: While powerful, the .45 Colt in a robust steel-framed revolver like the Runnin' Iron offers manageable recoil, especially for experienced shooters.

Choosing a .45 Colt ensures you're not just shooting a cartridge, but participating in a long and storied tradition of American marksmanship.

Barrel Length: The Nimble 3.50 Inches

The 3.50-inch barrel length of the Runnin' Iron Black Rock is a crucial design choice that significantly impacts the revolver's handling and suitability for specific disciplines.

• Quick Handling: Shorter barrels make a firearm more nimble and quicker to point. This is a significant advantage in dynamic shooting sports like Cowboy Action Shooting, where fast draws and rapid target acquisition are essential.
• Compactness: A shorter barrel contributes to a more compact overall package, making the revolver easier to carry and maneuver, especially when holstered.
• Balance: Taylors & Company has expertly balanced this shorter barrel with the frame, ensuring the revolver feels natural and stable in the hand, despite its reduced length.
• Reduced Weight: While perhaps a minor factor, a shorter barrel does contribute to a slightly lighter overall weight, which can be beneficial during extended shooting sessions or competitions.

While a longer barrel might offer a slightly longer sight radius for ultimate precision at distance, the 3.50-inch barrel is optimized for speed and fluidity, making it an excellent choice for shooters who prioritize quick transitions and a lively feel.

Capacity: Classic 6-Round Cylinder

Staying true to the historical design and tradition, the Runnin' Iron features a 6-round cylinder.

• Authenticity: This capacity is historically accurate for single-action revolvers of this type, reinforcing its classic appeal.
• Competitive Compliance: For Cowboy Action Shooting, a 6-round capacity is standard and aligns with rule sets, ensuring the revolver is match-ready.
• Simplicity: The uncomplicated loading and unloading process of a 6-shot single-action revolver is part of its charm and ease of use.

For safe carry of an original single-action design, it's often recommended to carry with five rounds, leaving the hammer resting on an empty chamber for maximum safety. However, for competitive use, all six chambers can be loaded.

Finish: Durable Black Nitride Steel

The "Black Rock" designation refers to the revolver's resilient Black Nitride finish. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's a significant upgrade in terms of durability and maintenance.

• Corrosion Resistance: Black Nitride is a highly advanced surface treatment that provides exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion, far surpassing traditional bluing. This is particularly valuable for a firearm that might be exposed to varying environmental conditions, whether on the range or in the field.
• Enhanced Hardness: The nitriding process hardens the steel surface, making it incredibly resistant to wear, scratches, and abrasions. This means the finish will hold up better over time, preserving the revolver’s appearance and value.
• Reduced Friction: The slick nature of a Black Nitride finish can contribute to smoother operation and easier cleaning, as fouling has a harder time adhering to the treated surface.
• Stealthy Aesthetics: The deep, matte black finish gives the Runnin' Iron a modern, tactical look while still maintaining its classic lines, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued appearance than polished steel or brass.

This robust finish ensures the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron will withstand the rigors of frequent use and maintain its appearance for years to come.

Grips: Elegant Checkered Walnut

The Checkered Walnut Grip on the Runnin' Iron is a perfect blend of classic aesthetics and practical ergonomics.

• Timeless Beauty: Walnut wood has been the material of choice for fine firearm grips for centuries, admired for its rich grain patterns and natural warmth. The checkered pattern adds a touch of sophistication and enhances its traditional appeal.
• Enhanced Control: The checkered texture provides a much-improved grip compared to smooth grips, especially in challenging conditions. This positive contact ensures the revolver stays firmly in hand, even during rapid firing or when hands are wet or gloved.
• Comfortable Ergonomics: The classic shape of the SAA grip is designed to fit a wide range of hand sizes comfortably, allowing for natural pointability and recoil absorption.
• Durability: Walnut is a durable wood, capable of withstanding the stresses of shooting and providing long-lasting performance.

The choice of checkered walnut not only enhances the revolver’s appearance but also significantly improves the shooter’s control and confidence.

The "Taylor Tuned" Advantage: A Game Changer

Perhaps the most significant differentiator of the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron, and a key reason why it's a top recommendation for serious shooters, is the "Taylor Tuned" designation. This isn't just a marketing slogan; it signifies that the revolver has undergone a comprehensive internal action job by skilled gunsmiths, elevating its performance far beyond a standard factory firearm.

What Does "Taylor Tuned" Mean?

A "Taylor Tuned" firearm receives meticulous attention to its internal mechanisms, resulting in:

• Feather-Light and Crisp Trigger Pull: One of the most noticeable improvements is the trigger. It's often lightened and smoothed, breaking cleanly without creep or grit. This consistency is vital for accuracy, allowing shooters to focus on sight alignment without fighting a heavy or inconsistent pull.
• Smoothed Hammer and Bolt Action: The internal components that control the hammer and cylinder rotation are polished and refined. This translates into an incredibly smooth and effortless cocking action, allowing for faster follow-up shots and reduced shooter fatigue during extended sessions.
• Optimized Mainspring and Trigger Spring: The springs are often replaced or adjusted to provide the optimal balance between reliability and ease of use, ensuring consistent ignition while maintaining the light action.
• Precision Timing: The timing of the cylinder lock-up and hammer fall is meticulously adjusted for perfect synchronization, enhancing both accuracy and the lifespan of the revolver.
• Enhanced Reliability: By addressing potential friction points and ensuring precise component interaction, the overall reliability of the firearm is significantly improved, reducing the chance of malfunctions.

Why is "Taylor Tuned" So Important?

For competitive shooters, especially in Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS), a "tuned" action is almost a necessity.

• Competitive Edge: A smoother, lighter action allows for faster and more precise shooting, shaving precious seconds off stage times and improving accuracy, directly impacting competitive scores.
• Reduced Fatigue: In multi-stage matches, the effort saved by a light and smooth action can make a considerable difference in a shooter's performance over the course of a day.
• Improved Accuracy: A crisp trigger and consistent action allow shooters to maintain better control and execute more precise shots.
• Enjoyment: Beyond competition, a "Taylor Tuned" revolver is simply a joy to shoot. The effortless operation transforms the shooting experience, making every pull of the trigger feel deliberate and satisfying.

For anyone asking, "Which .45 Colt revolver offers the best action out-of-the-box?", the answer often points directly to a "Taylor Tuned" model like the Runnin' Iron. It saves the owner the time, expense, and potential hassle of sending a new firearm to a custom gunsmith for an action job, providing a competition-ready revolver from day one.

Who Is the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron For?

The Taylors & Company 654001DE Runnin' Iron Black Rock is meticulously designed to meet the demands of several distinct user groups:

1. The Cowboy Action Shooter (CAS)

This is arguably the primary target audience. The Runnin' Iron's features are tailor-made for the sport:

• Speed and Maneuverability: The 3.50-inch barrel and smooth, tuned action are perfect for quick draws and rapid target transitions required in CAS stages.
• Reliability: The "Taylor Tuned" action ensures flawless operation under the pressure of competition, minimizing the dreaded "malfunction" that can cost a shooter valuable time.
• Authenticity: Its classic .45 Colt chambering and SAA styling fit perfectly within the spirit and rules of CAS.
• Durability: The Black Nitride finish ensures the revolver can withstand the frequent handling and holster wear inherent in competitive shooting.

If your question is, "What's the best revolver for Cowboy Action Shooting?", the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron should be at the top of your list.

2. The Discerning Collector of Western Firearms

For those who appreciate the historical significance and craftsmanship of Old West firearms, but also value modern performance, the Runnin' Iron is an excellent addition.

• Historical Accuracy with Modern Reliability: It offers the classic look and feel without the concerns of fragility or dated materials often associated with genuine antiques.
• Investment in Quality: The superior materials and "Taylor Tuned" action represent a higher standard of manufacturing, making it a valuable piece.
• Functional Art: It's a firearm that is as pleasing to display as it is to shoot, embodying both form and function.

3. The Enthusiast of Classic Revolvers

Beyond competition or collecting, many shooters simply enjoy the unique experience of firing a single-action revolver.

• Unique Shooting Experience: The deliberate process of cocking the hammer for each shot, combined with the smooth action of a tuned revolver, offers a deeply satisfying and engaging shooting experience unlike any other.
• Pure Fun: It’s a firearm that evokes a sense of nostalgia and provides pure, unadulterated fun at the range.
• Learning Opportunity: It allows shooters to appreciate the foundational mechanics of firearms and develop strong fundamental shooting skills.

4. Recreational Shooters and Range Goers

While specialized, the Runnin' Iron is also suitable for general recreational shooting for those seeking something different from modern semi-automatics.

• Conversation Starter: Its distinctive appearance and the sound of its action make it a real head-turner at any range.
• Skill Building: The single-action mechanism encourages precision and controlled shooting, which can improve overall marksmanship.
• Durable Companion: Its robust construction ensures it will provide many years of reliable service for casual range visits.

Maintaining Your Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron

To ensure your Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron provides a lifetime of reliable performance, proper care and maintenance are essential. While specific instructions will be provided with your firearm, here are general guidelines for single-action revolvers:

• Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially when firing lead bullets, thoroughly clean the bore, chambers, and forcing cone to remove powder residue and lead fouling. Use appropriate brushes, patches, and cleaning solvents.
• Lubrication: Lightly lubricate all moving parts, particularly the hammer pivot, trigger pivot, and cylinder pin. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt.
• Inspection: Periodically inspect the screws to ensure they are tight. Check for any signs of wear or damage to the cylinder, barrel, or frame.
• Storage: Store your revolver in a dry, secure location, preferably in a padded case or gun safe, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

The Black Nitride finish requires minimal specific care beyond general cleaning; it resists many common issues faced by blued firearms.

Where to Acquire Your Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron

For those ready to experience the unparalleled performance and classic appeal of the Taylors & Company 654001DE Runnin' Iron Black Rock .45 Colt revolver, this exceptional firearm is readily available. To ensure you receive an authentic product with outstanding customer service, we recommend purchasing from reputable dealers.

The Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron Black Rock is available through DEGuns, a trusted source for quality firearms and accessories. As a leading retailer, DEGuns offers a wide selection of firearms, competitive pricing, and knowledgeable staff to assist you with your purchase. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or a passionate collector, DEGuns.com is your premier destination for securing this magnificent piece of Western heritage, enhanced with modern precision.

In conclusion, the Taylors & Company Runnin' Iron Black Rock .45 Colt revolver is more than just a handgun; it's an investment in a legacy, a tool for competitive success, and a source of immense shooting enjoyment. Its blend of historical authenticity, modern durability, and the critical "Taylor Tuned" action makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a top-tier single-action revolver.

Product Specifications: Taylors & Company 654001DE Runnin' Iron Black Rock

Feature	Description
Model	Runnin' Iron Black Rock (654001DE)
Brand	Taylors & Company
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	3.50 inches
Finish	Black Nitride Steel
Grip Type	Checkered Walnut
Special Feature	Taylor Tuned Action
Action	Single Action Revolver
Purpose	Cowboy Action Shooting, Collection, Target
Source	Available at DEGuns.com