Colt Anaconda .45 Long Colt 8″ Stainless Revolver
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About this product
The Colt Anaconda .45 Long Colt 8" Stainless Revolver is a full-size, stainless steel double/single-action revolver designed for precision shooting and collection. Built around the classic .45 Long Colt cartridge, it features an 8-inch barrel and six-round cylinder that provide a stable shooting platform with significant mechanical advantages for both target work and field carry. This model represents one of Colt's modern interpretations of their large-frame revolver lineage, offering durability and straightforward operation without modern accessory rail clutter.
What is the Colt Anaconda used for?
The Colt Anaconda is primarily used for precision revolver shooting at distances out to 100 yards, where its 8-inch barrel provides superior sight radius and velocity over shorter-barreled wheelguns. Its stainless steel construction and .45 Long Colt chambering make it suitable for handgun hunting of medium game in jurisdictions where permitted, as well as for collectors seeking a duty-ready modern Colt revolver without the premium of vintage Python models. The weight distribution favors deliberate shooting over concealed carry, making it a range and field piece rather than a defensive sidearm.
How does the Colt Anaconda compare to the Ruger Super Redhawk?
The Colt Anaconda offers superior factory trigger refinement and a more traditional aesthetic, while the Ruger Super Redhawk provides greater aftermarket support and roughly 20% more cylinder wall thickness for handling heavy handloads. For shooters prioritizing trigger feel and collector value, the Anaconda is the better choice, while handloaders and those needing scope mounting systems will find the Ruger's platform more adaptable. The Ruger also typically carries a price advantage of approximately $200-300 for comparable configurations.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Colt Anaconda weighs 56 ounces (approximately 3.5 pounds) unloaded and measures 15 inches in overall length with an 8-inch barrel length. The cylinder measures 1.78 inches in diameter, with a frame window that accommodates six .45 Long Colt cartridges in a configuration that contributes to its substantial balance and perceived recoil management. These dimensions place it solidly in the large-frame revolver category, comparable to our Stevens 334 Rifle in terms of handling requirement though obviously different in application.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for concealed carry practitioners, budget-conscious shooters, or those seeking a light-recoiling introduction to handguns. Its 56-ounce weight, 15-inch overall length, and substantial .45 Long Colt recoil profile make it unsuitable for daily concealed carry, while its $1,489 price point places it above entry-level revolvers like Taurus or Charter Arms offerings. New shooters would be better served with a Stevens 555 shotgun for developing fundamentals before handling a large-caliber revolver.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 6-round stainless steel cylinder, and a single plastic case with foam insert—no accessories, tools, or additional grips are included from Colt. The cylinder features six chambers with a 1:20 left-hand twist rate, and the package documentation consists solely of the standard manual and warranty card without supplemental cleaning equipment. Expect to purchase separate .45 Long Colt ammunition, a cleaning kit rated for stainless steel, and potentially aftermarket grips if the factory checkered rubber doesn't suit your hand.
Is the Colt Anaconda worth it at $1,489?
At $1,489, the Colt Anaconda represents fair value for collectors and precision revolver shooters who prioritize Colt's heritage and trigger refinement over absolute durability or customization potential. Compared to a $1,100 Ruger Super Redhawk, you're paying approximately 35% more for the Colt name, smoother out-of-box trigger pull, and traditional styling—justifiable if those attributes align with your use case, but difficult to recommend for purely practical applications where the Ruger offers greater strength. Consider it a premium choice within its niche rather than a value leader.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 56-ounce weight provides 25% more mass than comparable 4-inch .357 revolvers for improved recoil management
- 8-inch barrel delivers 300-400 fps velocity increase over 4-inch .45 Long Colt barrels for better terminal performance
- Factory double-action trigger breaks at 9.5-10 pounds with minimal stacking—superior to most production revolvers
Trade-offs
- No included speed loader or moon clips—adds $25-40 for essential accessories
- Stainless steel finish shows handling marks more readily than matte finishes—expect visible wear after 500 rounds
- Limited aftermarket grip selection compared to S&W or Ruger platforms—custom orders add 8-12 week wait times
Key attributes
| upc | 098289005557 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | ANACONDA-SP8RTS-45C |
| action | Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 8'' |
| caliber/gauge | .45 Long Colt |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 15'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
| model | Anaconda |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 8.6 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| shipping weight | 5.5 |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .45 ACP ammunition using moon clips?
- No, the Colt Anaconda .45 Long Colt is not compatible with .45 ACP ammunition, even with moon clips, as the chambers are specifically dimensioned for the longer .45 Long Colt case. Attempting to fire .45 ACP cartridges could result in dangerous headspace issues and potential cylinder damage. The cartridge rim dimensions and overall case length differ by approximately 0.1 inches, requiring dedicated .45 Long Colt brass for safe operation.
- Does it fit standard S&W N-frame holsters?
- No, the Colt Anaconda's frame dimensions differ from S&W N-frame patterns by approximately 0.15 inches in cylinder diameter, requiring specific holsters designed for this model. The 8-inch barrel length further complicates compatibility with most standard revolver holsters. We recommend manufacturers like Diamond D Custom Leather or Simply Rugged Holsters, who offer patterns specifically cut for the Anaconda's profile with confirmed measurements.
- How long does shipping take to FFL holders?
- Shipping to your selected FFL holder typically requires 3-7 business days after order verification and compliance documentation clearance, depending on your location relative to our warehouse network. All shipments follow ATF-regulated procedures with signature-required delivery and cannot be expedited beyond standard firearms logistics timelines. You'll receive tracking information once the firearm enters the carrier system, usually within 24 hours of shipment initiation.
- Can I return it if the timing isn't satisfactory?
- No, firearms purchases are final sale once transferred through an FFL holder due to federal regulations prohibiting direct returns to non-licensees. If you identify a legitimate mechanical defect within Colt's 1-year warranty period, we facilitate direct factory service through Colt's certified repair network. All returns must be handled through the manufacturer's warranty process rather than retail exchange, with typical repair turnaround of 4-6 weeks.
- Does this work with Williams FireSights or similar aftermarket sights?
- Yes, the Colt Anaconda uses a standard adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight configuration compatible with multiple aftermarket options, including Williams FireSights and Millett Precision units. The front sight blade measures 0.25 inches wide and is interchangeable using standard sight tools available from Brownells or MidwayUSA. No gunsmithing is required for most sight swaps, though you may need a brass punch and hammer for stubborn factory installations.