Pietta 1873 Liberty Single Action Revolver 45 Colt 4.75-inch
Pros & cons
What works
- Extensive factory laser engraving covers 65% of metal surfaces - comparable to $1,100 custom work
- Steel frame construction weighs 2 lbs 8 oz - provides solid recoil management with full-power 45 Colt loads
- 4.75-inch barrel balances holster clearance with 7.25-inch sight radius for practical shooting
- Ultra Ivory grips resist cracking better than traditional ivory - withstands 500+ round counts without wear visible
Trade-offs
- 4.2-pound trigger pull requires polishing for competition use - adds $75-150 gunsmithing cost
- No loading tools or holster included - requires $50-100 additional accessory investment
- Six-round capacity limits practical defensive utility compared to modern 8-shot revolvers
- Standard cardboard packaging lacks display case - inferior to Uberti's wood presentation boxes
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Pietta 1873 Liberty Single Action Revolver 45 Colt 4.75-inch is a factory-engraved reproduction of the classic single-action army revolver built on a steel frame with period-correct handling characteristics. This 4.75-inch barrel version balances holster clearance with sight radius for practical western-style shooting. The Ultra Ivory grip with Liberty Eagle engraving provides both historical accuracy and distinctive visual appeal for collectors and shooters alike.
What is the Pietta 1873 Liberty Single Action Revolver used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a single-action shooting platform for western action competitions, cowboy action shooting events, and historical reenactments requiring period-appropriate firearms. The six-shot capacity and 45 Colt chambering match SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) regulations for traditional divisions, while the 4.75-inch barrel provides optimal balance between holster draw speed and target acquisition. It also functions well as a display piece due to the extensive laser engraving coverage on barrel, cylinder, and frame.
How does the Pietta 1873 Liberty compare to the Uberti Cattleman?
The Pietta offers more extensive factory engraving at a lower price point than most engraved Uberti models, but sacrifices some trigger refinement. While the Uberti Cattleman typically features a smoother 3.5-pound trigger pull out of the box, this Pietta model delivers a consistent 4.2-pound break that requires minor polishing for competition use. The Pietta's steel frame construction matches Uberti's durability, but the engraving depth and coverage provide superior cosmetic value for the $745 price point.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 2 pounds 8 ounces (1134 grams) unloaded with an overall length of 10.5 inches. The 4.75-inch barrel provides a sight radius of 7.25 inches from front blade to rear notch, while the cylinder measures 1.75 inches in diameter. The grip circumference measures 5.25 inches around the Ultra Ivory panels, accommodating medium to large hands comfortably.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is unsuitable for concealed carry or modern defensive purposes due to its single-action-only operation and six-round capacity limitation. Competition shooters requiring sub-3-pound triggers will need to budget for aftermarket springs and polishing, adding approximately $75-150 to the total cost. Those preferring modern ergonomics should consider our Stevens 334 Rifle instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one six-round cylinder, and Pietta's standard documentation packet with proof test certification. Unlike some competitors, it does not include loading tools or a basic holster, requiring approximately $50-100 in additional accessories for immediate range use. The factory packaging consists of a standard cardboard box with foam insert rather than a display case.
Is the Pietta 1873 Liberty worth it at $745?
At $745.20, this revolver represents solid value for shooters wanting engraved appearance without custom shop pricing, though it requires acceptance of its mechanical limitations. The extensive laser engraving would typically add $300-400 to a plain model, making this effectively a $400 base revolver with premium cosmetics. For collectors wanting reliable function with display-quality aesthetics, it justifies the price; for pure performance seekers, our Stevens 555 Sporting offers better value.
Key attributes
| upc | 641996211935 |
| manufacturer | Pietta |
| manufacturer part number | GW45LLE434NMUI |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Blued Engraved |
| barrel length | 4.75" |
| caliber/gauge | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| capacity | 6 |
| sights | Blade Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 45 Colt ammunition?
- Yes, it accepts all standard pressure 45 Colt ammunition up to 14,000 PSI, but cannot handle Ruger-only or +P loads due to the traditional black powder-era frame design. Always consult Pietta's manual for specific pressure limitations before firing.
- Does it fit standard single-action holsters?
- The 4.75-inch barrel configuration fits most generic 1873-pattern holsters designed for 5-inch barrels with minimal gap. For precise fit, specify '4.75-inch Pietta' when ordering from major holster makers like El Paso Saddlery or Simply Rugged.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically require 7-10 business days from order verification to FFL delivery, plus your local FFL's processing time. We use UPS Ground for all firearm shipments with mandatory adult signature requirement.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Yes, mechanical defects are covered by Pietta's 1-year warranty through their US importer, with repair or replacement typically completed within 30 days. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse returns are not accepted due to federal firearm transfer regulations.