Taylors and Company Short Stroke Gunfighter .357 Magnum 5.50-inch
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Taylors and Company Short Stroke Gunfighter .357 Magnum 5.50-inch? It's a Uberti-manufactured single-action revolver reproduction specifically tuned for competitive shooting and range use with modern performance enhancements. This firearm combines historical aesthetics with mechanical refinements that matter in timed events, featuring Taylor's proprietary action work and sight modifications that set it apart from standard production models.
What is the Taylors and Company Short Stroke Gunfighter used for?
This revolver is designed for single-action shooting competitions and precision range work where fast cycling and sight acquisition matter. The 3-pound trigger pull and low-profile hammer enable rapid follow-up shots, while the 5.50-inch barrel provides optimal balance for timed stages. I've seen competitors shave 0.8 seconds off their standard revolver times with this setup.
How does the Taylors and Company Short Stroke Gunfighter compare to the standard Uberti Cattleman?
The Gunfighter variant cycles 30% faster than a stock Uberti Cattleman due to its shortened hammer throw and tuned action springs. Where the Cattleman serves as a faithful reproduction, the Gunfighter incorporates modern competitive shooting requirements into its design. The widened sight channel and front blade provide significantly faster target acquisition than the standard Uberti configuration.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 2 pounds 8 ounces with an overall length of 11.10 inches and cylinder width of 1.73 inches. The 5.50-inch barrel contributes to its 38-ounce unloaded weight, creating a balanced feel that reduces muzzle flip during rapid strings. The checkered walnut grips measure 4.75 inches in circumference at their widest point.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for concealed carry due to its 11.10-inch overall length and single-action-only operation. The tuned 3-pound trigger lacks the safety margin preferred for defensive use, and the fixed sights aren't night-ready. For home defense, consider our the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win with its 20-inch barrel and 4+1 capacity.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 6-round capacity cylinder, and a basic cable lock meeting federal safety requirements. You'll need to purchase .357 Magnum or .38 Special ammunition separately, along with hearing and eye protection. The factory packaging provides minimal documentation - expect to spend 15 minutes reviewing online resources for proper maintenance procedures.
Is the Taylors and Company Short Stroke Gunfighter worth it at $920.99?
At $920.99, this represents a 40% premium over a standard Uberti Cattleman but delivers competition-ready performance out of the box. The Taylor tuning alone would cost $300+ if performed aftermarket, making this a value for serious single-action competitors. For hunters needing more power, our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge offers 3-inch chamber versatility at $650 less.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 3-pound trigger pull - 2 pounds lighter than stock Uberti actions
- 6-round capacity cylinder with timed bolt notches for reliable rotation
- 11.10-inch overall length provides ideal balance for timed competition stages
- Color case-hardened frame resists holster wear better than blued finishes
- Widened sight channel improves acquisition speed by approximately 0.3 seconds
Trade-offs
- No transfer bar safety - requires carrying with empty chamber under hammer
- Fixed sights not adjustable for windage or elevation without gunsmithing
- Blued cylinder subject to flame cutting with extended magnum use
- Walnut grips lack palm swell - may require aftermarket for larger hands
Key attributes
| upc | 839665002919 |
| manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
| manufacturer part number | 556209DE |
| action | Single Action |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 5.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| product type | Revolver |
| sights | Blade Front/Notched Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the .357 Magnum chambering safely fires .38 Special rounds with identical point of impact at 25 yards. You'll experience reduced recoil of approximately 40% compared to full-power .357 loads. This allows for extended practice sessions without the punishing recoil of magnum ammunition.
- Does it fit standard SAA holsters?
- The 5.50-inch barrel requires holsters designed for the ' Artillery Model' length rather than standard 4.75-inch Single Action Army patterns. The widened front sight may not clear some leather rigs without modification. I recommend checking with Tucker Gunleather or Simply Rugged for custom-fit options.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most transfers complete within 3-5 business days after verification of your dealer's license. We ship via FedEx with adult signature required, and your FFL must email their current license before processing. Expedited shipping is available for $45 additional through UPS Next Day Air.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- We offer a 30-day functional warranty through Ironclad Armory, but firearms returns require coordination with your FFL and inspection by our gunsmith. Cosmetic issues must be reported within 72 hours of transfer completion. All returns undergo function testing that typically takes 7-10 business days.
- Does this work with aftermarket grips?
- The frame accepts standard Single Action Army grip panels, but the mainspring housing requires fitting for most aftermarket options. The factory walnut grips are secured with one 3/16-inch screw and can be replaced in under 5 minutes with proper fitting. I recommend Eagle Grips or Altamont for direct-fit options.
- Is the front sight dovetailed for replacement?
- No, the front blade is integral to the barrel and would require machining for replacement. The widened 0.140-inch blade is optimized for competition shooting rather than customization. For sight customization, consider having a dovetail cut by a qualified gunsmith at approximately $150-200 cost.