Taylor & Company Gunfighter Defender .45 Colt 4.75″ 6rd
About this product
What is the Taylor & Company Gunfighter Defender .45 Colt 4.75″ 6rd? It's a modern interpretation of the Colt Single Action Army revolver built with forged steel components and a lowered hammer spur for comfortable carry. This revolver blends period-correct styling with subtle ergonomic improvements for the modern shooter who values mechanical reliability over tactical features.
What is the Taylor & Company Gunfighter Defender .45 Colt 4.75″ 6rd used for?
The Gunfighter Defender serves specifically as a range and recreational firearm, not a duty weapon. Its single-action mechanism requires manual cocking for each shot, making it ideal for deliberate target shooting and cowboy action sports. I recommend it for shooters who appreciate the historical mechanics of western revolvers.
How does the Taylor & Company Gunfighter Defender compare to the Ruger Vaquero?
The Ruger Vaquero offers superior safety with its transfer bar ignition system allowing six rounds safely carried, while the Gunfighter Defender requires an empty chamber under hammer for safe carry. Ruger's frame is investment cast rather than forged like Taylor's, making the Defender 2.4 ounces heavier at 38.1 ounces but potentially more durable under sustained fire. The Vaquero better serves modern carry needs despite its higher $899 price point.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 38.1 ounces (1080 grams) with an overall length of 10.35 inches and height of 5.25 inches. The 4.75-inch barrel provides adequate sight radius for precision work while keeping the package manageable for belt carry. This dimensions make it comparable to period-correct firearms while accommodating modern holsters.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you need defensive readiness or rapid follow-up shots. The single-action mechanism requires deliberate manual operation that adds approximately 1.5 seconds per shot compared to double-action revolvers like our Stevens 334 bolt-action rifles for hunting applications. Those requiring NFA-compliant features should consider modern alternatives.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and basic documentation without tools or cleaning kit. You'll need to purchase .45 Colt ammunition separately along with appropriate cleaning supplies. The absence of speedloaders or holsters means additional $75-150 in necessary accessories.
Is the Taylor & Company Gunfighter Defender worth it at $734.99?
At $734.99, this revolver delivers excellent value for enthusiasts seeking authentic single-action mechanics without custom shop prices. The forged steel construction and hand-fitted components typically found in $1200+ revolvers make this a sensible entry into traditional shooting sports. Consider it over modern polymer alternatives if you appreciate mechanical heritage.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Forged steel frame withstands .45 Colt pressures better than investment cast alternatives—rated for 14,000 PSI
- Lowered hammer spur reduces snag risk by 0.3 inches compared to traditional SAA designs
- 6-groove rifling provides 1:16 twist rate optimized for 250-grain lead bullets
Trade-offs
- No transfer bar safety—requires carrying with empty chamber under hammer for safe operation
- Walnut grips lack palm swell—users with small hands may find gripping surface insufficient
- Half-hour disassembly process for thorough cleaning versus 10 minutes on modern revolvers
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 810012512114 |
| manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
| manufacturer part number | 555168 |
| shipping weight | 3.2 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .45 ACP ammunition?
- No, this revolver chambers .45 Colt cartridges exclusively with a chamber diameter of 0.480 inches. Using .45 ACP requires moon clips and conversion cylinders not supplied by Taylor & Company. Always verify chamber markings before loading.
- Does it fit standard SAA holsters?
- Yes, the 4.75-inch barrel and standard frame dimensions兼容 with most Colt Single Action Army holsters from manufacturers like El Paso Saddlery. The lowered hammer spur may require slight modification in tightly fitted rigs. Measure your holster's internal dimensions against the revolver's 1.6-inch frame width.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically require 7-10 business days after processing, plus your local FFL's transfer time. We use UPS Adult Signature Required service with tracking provided within 24 hours of shipment. Delivery to remote areas may add 2-3 additional days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through your FFL, per ATF regulations. We recommend handling similar revolvers at local ranges before purchase. The Army-size walnut grip measures 5.5 inches in circumference—compare this to your existing revolvers for fit assessment.
- Does this work with Pietta reproduction parts?
- Partial compatibility exists—the barrel thread pattern matches Pietta's 12x1mm standard, but frame screws may require fitting. Taylor & Company uses proprietary heat treatment on their forged frames, so consult their gunsmithing department at 540-722-2017 for specific parts interoperability.