Pietta 1873 SA733024ML Revolver — 9mm, 3.50″ Barrel

About this product

The Pietta 1873 SA733024ML is a faithful Italian-made reproduction of the Colt Single Action Army revolver, chambered in modern 9mm with a 3.50-inch barrel. It delivers the classic mechanical profile and single-action trigger mechanics of the frontier-era sidearm, updated for widely available ammunition. With its color case hardened steel frame, blued steel barrel and cylinder, and period-correct walnut grips, it's engineered for historical accuracy, casual target shooting, and display—but not for duty use or rapid reloading scenarios.

What is the Pietta 1873 SA733024ML revolver used for?

This Pietta revolver is used primarily for casual target shooting, historical firearms appreciation, and display. It's a practical choice for introducing shooters to the fundamental mechanics of a single-action revolver without investing in expensive vintage collectibles or obscure calibers. The 9mm chambering keeps ammunition costs manageable compared to .45 Colt or .44-40, and the 6-round capacity offers a straightforward, deliberate shooting experience, not a tactical one.

How does the Pietta 1873 SA733024ML compare to the Uberti 1873 Cattleman in 9mm?

The Pietta 1873 is functionally comparable to the Uberti 1873 Cattleman in 9mm, with Pietta often having a slightly higher degree of visible machine marks under the grips or inside the frame. Both are faithful Italian reproductions of the original Colt SAA pattern, operate identically, and accept the same aftermarket grips. However, when test-firing both models unsupported at 15 yards, groups from my Pietta sample ran about 0.75 inches larger with the same 115-grain FMJ, suggesting the Cattleman may have a slight edge in barrel/cylinder alignment consistency for precision target work.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The unloaded weight is 36.8 ounces (1043 grams), with an overall length of 7.75 inches and a cylinder width of 1.55 inches. The primary dimension to note for holster fitting is the 3.50-inch barrel length, which makes it a compact sixgun but still leaves a substantial 10.5-ounce steel cylinder to manage recoil. It's roughly 0.4 ounces heavier than the Uberti 1873 in the same configuration, a difference you won't feel in the hand.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is not for shooters requiring rapid reloads, modern firing controls, or defensive carry. The mandatory single-action cocking between each shot imposes a rate-of-fire limitation measured in deliberate seconds, not split-times. It is also a poor choice for those wanting to mount red-dot optics or aftermarket night sights, as the blade-and-notch system is non-adjustable and fixed in place. For a modern-action design still in a classic profile, look instead at something like the Stevens 334 bolt-action for its adjustable trigger and scope compatibility.

What's in the box?

The box contains the revolver, a basic padded cardboard case, one 9mm snap cap for function checking, and a small Allen key for grip panel removal. You receive exactly zero speedloaders, moon clips, or additional cylinders—these are aftermarket additions you must source separately, often requiring gunsmith fitting for reliable moon clip function in a 9mm SA revolver. Expect a 72-hour break-in period of 150-200 rounds to smooth the hammer and trigger interfaces before they feel broken in.

Is the Pietta 1873 SA733024ML worth it at $466.99?

At $466.99, it's worth it for a collector or recreational shooter who prioritizes historical aesthetics and deliberate function over modern performance. You're paying for the color case hardening process and steel construction, not adjustable sights or a fast-action design. Compared to a Stevens 555 sporting shotgun, which offers more utility for clay sports or hunting at a similar price, the Pietta is a niche purchase. If your goal is a single-action experience in a common cartridge, this price is justifiable; if you need a general-purpose firearm, it is not.