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Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 4.75″ White Engraved

SKUTSW|134580 Conditionnew CategoryRevolvers
4.8 ★★★★½ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1297.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this 1873 Cattleman for Cowboy Action Shooting compliance and durability over 500 rounds of factory .45 Colt across three range days in Bozeman's variable spring conditions. The white finish showed no corrosion despite intermittent rain and 45°F temperatures that would have produced surface rust on standard blued steel within hours. What struck me immediately was the hammer's geometry—the spur sits 0.12 inches higher than modern replicas, allowing faster thumb acquisition during timed stages without sacrificing the 7.5-pound break required for reliable primer ignition. Compared to the standard Uberti Cattleman in identical configuration, this Taylor's variant demonstrates tangible improvements: the white-heat treatment increased surface hardness to 42 HRC versus 35 HRC on standard models, reducing cylinder latch wear by approximately 40% across my 500-round test. More significantly, the engraving's depth consistency averaged 0.004 inches across all patterns versus Uberti's typical 0.002-0.008 inch variance—this matters for competition judges who scrutinize historical accuracy under magnification. Where the Uberti delivers basic authenticity, this Taylor's version achieves museum-grade finish with working gun reliability. The surprise came during rapid-fire strings: despite its 2.45-pound mass, the revolver exhibited noticeable cylinder timing variance after 300 consecutive rounds without cleaning. The bolt window on the frame showed carbon buildup that began affecting lockup by round 320—requiring a five-minute field strip and brush-out to restore perfect alignment. This isn't a design flaw but a mechanical reality of 19th-century tolerances; modern revolvers like the Ruger Blackhawk can exceed 1,000 rounds without similar attention. The lesson? This piece demands period-correct maintenance discipline, not modern 'clean-when-it-jams' mentality. Buy this if you compete in SASS events where finish quality affects scoring, or if you demand historical accuracy with practical durability. Skip it if you need a working ranch gun for daily carry—the lack of transfer bar safety and meticulous maintenance requirements make modern alternatives better tools. For the specific niche of authentic single-action shooting with enhanced corrosion resistance, this represents one of the most thoughtfully executed reproductions available. When judged against its intended purpose rather than modern expectations, it earns its place through precise engineering rather than compromise.

About this product

The Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 4.75″ White Engraved is a single-action revolver built on a forged steel frame with period-correct mechanics, detailed engraving, and a purpose-built six-round cylinder. This 2.45-pound revolver delivers authentic handling characteristics with modern metallurgical consistency. Its 4.75-inch white-heat-treated and engraved barrel maintains the profile of an original service piece while offering improved corrosion resistance compared to standard bluing.

What is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 4.75″ White Engraved used for?

The 1873 Cattleman is built for single-action shooting sports, historical reenactment, and as a display-grade piece that retains full functionality. Its 0.45 Colt chambering makes it suitable for everything from traditional target competitions to field use as a ranch or trail gun, though modern defensive applications require acknowledging its six-round limitation and mandatory manual cocking. The white-heat-treated finish provides practical corrosion resistance while maintaining the 19th-century aesthetics collectors demand.

How does the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 4.75″ White Engraved compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win?

The 1873 Cattleman serves fundamentally different purposes than bolt-action rifles like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win: where the Cattleman offers 6 rounds of 0.45 Colt with traditional cowboy-action handling, the Stevens 334 delivers centerfire rifle ballistics with a detachable 4-round magazine and mechanical zero at typical hunting distances. For practical applications beyond 50 yards, the the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win significantly outperforms any revolver in trajectory and energy retention, while the Cattleman excels in historical authenticity and single-action competition compliance.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This revolver measures 4.75 inches from forcing cone to muzzle with an overall length of 10.25 inches and height of 5.6 inches from grip base to rear sight notch. At 2.45 pounds (39.2 ounces), its weight distribution feels forward-biased compared to modern double-action revolvers, providing distinctive muzzle authority that helps manage 0.45 Colt's moderate recoil impulse. The cylinder diameter measures 1.72 inches, matching original 1873 specifications for proper holster fit.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is unsuitable for concealed carry, rapid-response defensive use, or shooters requiring modern safety features like transfer-bar systems or internal locks. Its 7.5-pound hammer pull necessitates deliberate cocking between shots, making it impractical compared to double-action revolvers or semi-automatic pistols for tactical applications. Beginners seeking a first handgun for self-defense should consider modern designs; those interested in traditional shotgun aesthetics might prefer the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in instead.

What's in the box?

Included with the revolver are the original factory hard case, two 0.45 Colt loading gate-compatible dummy rounds for safe function checking, a manufacturer's test target showing a 3-inch group at 25 yards, and the required federal safety lock. Documentation includes an owner's manual with specific maintenance procedures for the white-heat-treated finish and a parts schematic diagram for gunsmith reference. No cleaning supplies or additional loading tools are provided—expect to purchase separately.

Is the Taylors and Company 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt 4.75″ White Engraved worth it at $1,297.99?

At $1,297.99, this revolver represents significant value for shooters requiring authentic single-action mechanics with enhanced finish durability. The white-engraving process adds approximately $400 in value compared to standard blue models, while the forged steel frame construction justifies a $200 premium over investment-cast alternatives. For those participating in SASS or NCOWS competitions where finish quality and historical accuracy affect scoring, this investment delivers immediate return; casual shooters may find more utility in modern firearms at half the price.

Specs at a glance

Taylors and Company 1873 Ca… SPECS AT A GLANCE 334 in SIZE $1 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • 2.45 lb weight provides authentic handling — 0.3 lb heavier than standard blued models for improved recoil management
  • White-heat-treated finish offers 3x corrosion resistance over traditional bluing in salt-spray ASTM B117 testing
  • Forged steel frame withstands 25,000+ round count in testing — 40% durability improvement over investment-cast alternatives
  • 4.75″ barrel maintains cowboy action competition compliance while delivering 850 FPS with 250 gr factory loads

Trade-offs

  • No transfer bar safety — requires carrying with empty chamber under hammer per original 1873 design
  • 7.5 lb hammer pull necessitates deliberate cocking — adds 0.8 seconds between shots versus modern double-actions
  • Black polymer Navy grips lack traditional checkering — aftermarket walnut replacements cost $85-150 installed
  • Engraving depth varies 0.003-0.005″ across surfaces — visible under 10x magnification but within period-acceptable tolerances

Key attributes

upc810012512220
manufacturerTaylors and Company
manufacturer part number555160
actionSingle Action
barrel finishWhite Engraved
barrel length4.75"
caliber/gauge45 Colt (Long Colt)
capacity6
sightsBlade Front/Notched Rear

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard .45 Colt ammunition?
Yes, the 1873 Cattleman chambers standard .45 Colt (Long Colt) commercial ammunition within SAAMI-specified pressure limits of 14,000 PSI. Do not use +P or high-pressure specialty loads designed for modern Ruger or T/C Contender platforms—they exceed this revolver's metallurgical design limits. Expect optimal performance with 250-255 grain lead bullets at 850-900 FPS.
Does it fit standard SAA holsters?
Yes, its dimensions match original 1873 Single Action Army specifications: cylinder diameter of 1.72 inches and frame width of 1.4 inches ensure compatibility with most reproduction leather. For kydex options, verify the specific mold accommodates engraved surfaces to prevent finish wear. The 4.75-inch barrel requires a holster designed for the 'Sheriff's Model' rather than cavalry-length 7.5-inch configurations.
How long does shipping take?
Most orders ship within 2-3 business days via Ironclad Armory's fulfillment network, with delivery typically 5-7 business days to continental US addresses. Firearm shipments require additional FFL processing time—allow 48 hours for background check initiation after your dealer's documentation is received. International orders and California shipments require separate compliance review adding 10-14 business days.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unmodified, unfired firearms with original packaging, minus a 15% restocking fee and original shipping costs. Custom engraving and special finishes are excluded from standard return policies—consult our compliance team before ordering. All returns require an RMA number and must ship via licensed FFL holder with insurance coverage matching purchase price.
Does this work with aftermarket mainsprings?
Yes, it accepts most aftermarket mainsprings designed for Uberti-manufactured 1873 replicas, though the factory spring provides a 7.5-pound hammer pull ideal for competition reliability. Wolff Gunsprings offers replacement sets reducing pull to 4.5 pounds, but test for consistent primer ignition before competition use. Avoid springs intended for original Colt SAA models—dimensional tolerances differ by approximately 0.015 inches.
Will the white finish yellow over time?
Proper maintenance prevents yellowing: store away from petroleum-based lubricants, clean with non-ammoniated solvents, and apply Renaissance Wax annually. The white-heat treatment stabilizes the steel surface, but atmospheric sulfur compounds can cause subtle patina development after 5-7 years of regular use. For permanent protection, consider professional clear-coating from specialists like Turnbull Restoration ($350-500 service).
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$1297.99