The Enduring Legacy: Taylors & Company OG1417 1873 Cattleman Revolver in .45 Colt (LC)

For anyone seeking to own a true piece of American history, not merely a replica but a meticulously crafted embodiment of the Old West spirit, the Taylors & Company OG1417 1873 Cattleman revolver stands as an unparalleled choice. This particular model, chambered in the iconic .45 Colt (LC), boasts a striking nickel finish and elegant ivory synthetic grips, making it a functional firearm and a captivating collector's item. But what makes this specific revolver so special, and who is it designed for?

Rediscovering the Spirit of the American Frontier

The 1873 Single Action Army revolver, often affectionately known as the "Peacemaker," revolutionized personal defense and law enforcement in the American West. Its robust design, reliability, and potent .45 Colt cartridge quickly established it as the firearm of choice for cowboys, lawmen, and soldiers alike. It participated in countless historical events, from frontier skirmishes to the settling of new territories, becoming a legendary symbol of the era.

Today, owning an original 1873 Colt is often cost-prohibitive for most enthusiasts. This is where high-quality reproductions like the Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman come into play. They solve the problem of accessibility by offering an authentic shooting experience and a tangible connection to history without the exorbitant price tag. For those who ask, "What is the best way to experience a piece of the Old West?", or "Where can I find a reliable and historically accurate replica of a frontier revolver?", the answer frequently points to a Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman.

Who Will Cherish the OG1417 1873 Cattleman?

This revolver isn't just a firearm; it's a statement. It's perfectly suited for a diverse range of individuals who appreciate historical authenticity, craftsmanship, and the unique satisfaction of shooting a classic single-action revolver.

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS): This is perhaps the primary audience. The Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman is an ideal choice for competitive shooting disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting, where participants dress in Old West attire and use firearms from the period. Its faithful reproduction of the original 1873 design, combined with modern manufacturing reliability, makes it a top contender for both authenticity and performance in competition. Users often ask, "Which 1873 replica is best for Cowboy Action Shooting?", and the Cattleman series consistently ranks highly.
• Historical Re-enactors: For those dedicated to meticulously recreating periods of American history, this revolver provides the period-correct appearance and feel necessary for immersive experiences. Its attention to detail, from the frame shape to the grip contours, ensures a high level of historical accuracy.
• Firearms Collectors & Enthusiasts: Discerning collectors who seek high-quality replicas that capture the essence of iconic firearms will find immense value in the OG1417. Its stunning nickel finish and "ivory" grips elevate it beyond a mere tool, transforming it into a display-worthy centerpiece.
• Target Shooters & Recreational Users: Beyond its historical and competitive applications, the 1873 Cattleman offers a wonderfully unique shooting experience. The deliberate, satisfying action of a single-action revolver, combined with the mild recoil of the .45 Colt (LC) in a well-built gun, makes for an enjoyable day at the range. It encourages precise shooting and a deeper appreciation for firearm mechanics.

Unpacking the Distinctive Features of the OG1417 Model

The Taylors & Company OG1417 model distinguishes itself with a unique combination of features that contribute to its appeal and functionality.

The Potent .45 Colt (LC) Caliber

Chambered in .45 Colt (LC) – often simply referred to as .45 Long Colt – this revolver embraces the cartridge that defined the original Single Action Army's legacy. The .45 Colt was the standard military cartridge for decades and remains popular among shooters today for several reasons:

• Historical Accuracy: It is the quintessential cartridge for an 1873 replica, providing an authentic shooting experience.
• Performance: Known for its substantial power and large bullet diameter, it delivers significant knockdown power while being manageable in a revolver of this size.
• Reloading Versatility: For enthusiasts who reload ammunition, the .45 Colt offers excellent versatility, allowing for a wide range of loads suitable for everything from light target practice to more robust hunting or defense applications.
• Availability: Despite its age, .45 Colt ammunition is widely available from various manufacturers, ensuring you can always find suitable rounds for practice or competition.

The Compact 3.50-Inch Barrel

While the original 1873 SAA was famous for its 7.5-inch cavalry model barrel, and later its 5.5-inch artillery model, the 3.50-inch barrel on the OG1417 is a notable departure, often referred to as a "Sheriff's Model" or "Storekeeper's" configuration. This shorter barrel length offers distinct advantages:

• Enhanced Concealability: While not typically a modern concealed carry firearm, the shorter barrel makes it significantly more compact than its longer counterparts, allowing for easier holstering and less snagging.
• Faster Draw: For competitive shooting or re-enactment scenarios requiring quick handling, the shorter barrel facilitates a faster and smoother draw from a holster.
• Balanced Handling: Despite its compact size, the 1873 Cattleman retains excellent balance, contributing to natural pointability and comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions.
• Unique Aesthetic: The short barrel gives the revolver a distinctive, robust look that sets it apart from more common barrel lengths, appealing to collectors seeking variations.

The Resplendent Nickel Finish

The nickel finish on the Taylors & Company OG1417 is more than just an aesthetic choice; it's a functional enhancement that adds to the revolver's durability and visual appeal.

• Corrosion Resistance: Nickel plating provides a durable, protective layer that is highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and the elements, making it ideal for regular use and ensuring the revolver maintains its pristine appearance for years.
• Ease of Cleaning: The smooth, non-porous surface of nickel is remarkably easy to wipe clean, resisting fouling and powder residue build-up, simplifying maintenance.
• Classic Old West Look: Nickel plating was a popular custom finish in the late 19th century, particularly for "fancy" revolvers owned by well-to-do citizens, gamblers, and lawmen. This finish immediately evokes a sense of period authenticity and luxury.
• Striking Appearance: The bright, reflective surface of the nickel finish creates a visually stunning contrast with the black accents of the revolver, making it a showpiece in any collection.

Elegant Ivory Synthetic Grips

The inclusion of ivory synthetic grips further elevates the aesthetic and tactile experience of the OG1417.

• Luxurious Appearance: These grips mimic the rich, creamy appearance of genuine ivory, a material traditionally associated with high-end, custom firearms of the Old West. They lend an air of sophistication and historical accuracy to the revolver.
• Durability and Stability: Unlike natural ivory, which can be prone to cracking, shrinking, or yellowing over time, synthetic ivory is engineered for superior durability, stability, and resistance to environmental factors. This ensures your grips will maintain their beauty and fit for the long haul.
• Ethical Consideration: Synthetic grips provide the desired look without the ethical concerns or legal restrictions often associated with acquiring and owning genuine ivory.
• Comfortable Handling: Designed to replicate the feel and contour of traditional grip panels, these synthetic grips offer a comfortable and secure hold, enhancing control during shooting.

The Taylors & Company Commitment to Quality

Taylors & Company is renowned for its dedication to importing and distributing some of the finest historical firearm reproductions available today. Their partnership with world-class manufacturers, particularly Uberti in Italy, ensures that each 1873 Cattleman revolver is built to exacting standards of quality, reliability, and historical accuracy.

When you invest in a Taylors & Company firearm, you're not just buying a gun; you're acquiring a meticulously crafted piece of history designed for performance and longevity. Users consistently report high levels of satisfaction with the fit, finish, and functionality of Taylors & Company revolvers. This commitment translates into a firearm that feels solid in the hand, operates smoothly, and reliably performs whether on the range or in a competition.

Care and Maintenance for Your 1873 Cattleman

To ensure your Taylors & Company OG1417 remains in pristine condition and functions flawlessly for generations, proper care is essential.

1. Regular Cleaning: After each shooting session, a thorough cleaning is recommended. This includes removing powder residue from the bore, cylinder chambers, and action. Use appropriate bore brushes, patches, and cleaning solvents.
2. Lubrication: Apply a light coat of high-quality gun oil to all moving parts within the action and a thin layer to the exterior metal surfaces (especially the nickel) to prevent corrosion.
3. Proper Storage: Store your revolver in a cool, dry place, ideally in a padded case or gun safe, to protect it from dust, moisture, and accidental damage. Avoid storing in gun rugs for extended periods in humid environments, as they can trap moisture.
4. Handling: Always handle your single-action revolver responsibly, following all safety guidelines. The 1873 design typically requires the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot, and many users prefer to carry with an empty chamber under the hammer for enhanced safety, especially in the absence of a modern transfer bar safety. Consult the owner's manual for specific safety recommendations.

Where to Purchase Your Taylors & Company OG1417

For those ready to embrace the legacy of the Old West and add the remarkable Taylors & Company OG1417 1873 Cattleman to their collection, DEGuns is a trusted source. As a leading retailer of firearms and accessories, DEGuns offers a wide selection of Taylors & Company products, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your needs. Their knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and guide you through the purchasing process, making it seamless and secure.

The Taylors & Company OG1417 1873 Cattleman revolver in .45 Colt (LC) with its 3.50-inch barrel, nickel finish, and ivory synthetic grip is more than just a firearm; it's a tangible link to a pivotal era in American history. It offers an authentic shooting experience, a captivating aesthetic, and the reliability of modern manufacturing. Whether for Cowboy Action Shooting, collecting, re-enactment, or simply the joy of owning an iconic piece of Americana, this revolver is an investment in history and performance.

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Taylors & Company OG1417 1873 Cattleman Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	OG1417 1873 Cattleman
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	3.50 inches
Finish	Nickel
Grips	Ivory Synthetic
Action Type	Single Action Revolver
Frame Material	Forged Steel
Overall Length (approx.)	9 inches
Weight (approx.)	2.3 lbs
Manufacturer	Taylors & Company (Uberti, Italy)
UPC	841077102062