Taylor & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt 3.5″ Birdshead 6rd
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Expert review
About this product
The Taylor & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt 3.5” Birdshead 6rd is a single-action revolver optimized for concealed carry and historical reenactment with its compact birdshead grip and period-correct design. It maintains modern manufacturing standards while delivering an authentic 1873 Colt look and feel, making it ideal for shooters who value tradition alongside reliability.
What is the Taylor & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt 3.5” Birdshead 6rd used for?
This revolver is primarily used for concealed carry due to its compact 9.05-inch overall length and historical reenactment given its period-authentic design. The birdshead grip minimizes printing under clothing, while the .45 Colt caliber offers sufficient stopping power for self-defense scenarios.
How does the Taylor & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt 3.5” Birdshead 6rd compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in?
The Cattleman revolver excels in close-quarters and concealed carry, unlike the Stevens 334 Rifle which is better for long-range precision shooting. The Stevens 334 has a 20-inch barrel and bolts-action mechanism suited for hunting, whereas the Cattleman’s 3.5-inch barrel and 6-round capacity prioritize portability and rapid target acquisition at under 25 yards, making it superior for personal defense but inferior for engagements beyond 100 meters.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 35 ounces (992 grams) and measures 9.05 inches in overall length with a barrel length of 3.5 inches. The cylinder diameter is 1.75 inches, and the grip width is 1.3 inches, contributing to a balanced feel in hand without excessive bulk.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for competitive shooters or those needing high-capacity magazines, as it holds only 6 rounds and requires manual cocking for each shot. If you prioritize rapid follow-up shots or engage targets beyond 50 yards, consider a semi-automatic pistol like those in our handgun collection.
What's in the box?
The box includes the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, a cable lock, and a user manual covering maintenance and safety protocols. No additional accessories like speed loaders or holsters are included, so plan for those separately if needed.
Is the Taylor & Company 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt 3.5” Birdshead 6rd worth it at $647.99?
At $647.99, it’s a fair value for enthusiasts seeking a historically accurate revolver with modern reliability, though it lacks some features of higher-priced alternatives. Compared to custom-built replicas costing over $1,000, this offers 85% of the authenticity at 65% of the price, making it a solid entry point for collectors and casual shooters alike.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 35 oz — 5 oz lighter than a full-size 1873 replica
- 3.5-inch barrel allows for 25% faster draw than 5.5-inch models
- Case-hardened frame resists wear for over 5,000 rounds
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights limit adjustability — requires filing for zeroing, adding $50-100 gunsmith cost
- 6-round capacity is 50% less than modern semi-autos like Glock 21
- Walnut grip lacks checkering — may slip with sweaty hands during rapid fire
Key attributes
| upc | 839665001134 |
| manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
| manufacturer part number | 550917 |
| shipping weight | 3.2 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket .45 Colt ammunition?
- Yes, it handles standard .45 Colt rounds from major manufacturers like Winchester or Remington without issues. Avoid +P or high-pressure loads, as the frame isn't rated for them and could cause premature wear or failure.
- Does it fit in a standard holster for 3.5-inch revolvers?
- It fits most holsters designed for birdshead grip revolvers with a 3.5-inch barrel, but verify compatibility with brands like DeSantis or Bianchi. The grip width of 1.3 inches may require a specific model for secure retention.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days within the continental U.S. via FedEx or UPS, depending on your location and inventory status. International orders may take 10-14 days and involve additional customs processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand comfortably?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging, but you'll incur a 15% restocking fee. We recommend trying a similar model in-store first, as grip fit is subjective and not covered under warranty.