Is it compatible with modern .45 Colt +P ammunition?

No, do not use +P or high-pressure loads in this open-top design. The frame is engineered for standard-pressure SAAMI-spec .45 Colt ammunition, generating around 14,000 PSI. Using higher-pressure rounds risks frame stretching or cylinder failure. Stick to standard 250-255 grain lead or cowboy action loads from brands like Winchester or Fiocchi.

Does it fit a standard holster for a Colt Peacemaker?

Yes, its external dimensions are faithful to the original 1871-1872 Open-Top pattern. Holsters molded for the Colt 1851/1871-72 open-top revolvers, such as those from El Paso Saddlery or Kirkpatrick Leather, will fit this 3.50-inch barrel model. The overall length of 9.30 inches is the critical measurement for holster compatibility.

How long does the blued finish last with regular use?

The hot salt bluing is durable but will show holster wear after approximately 500-750 drawing cycles from a leather holster. For range-only use, wiping down with a silicone cloth after each session should preserve the finish for several years. Expect noticeable finish loss on the cylinder and barrel high points after 2,000 rounds of handling.

Can I return it if the timing is off or it doesn't function?

Ironclad Armory handles returns for manufacturing defects within the first 30 days. If the hand-to-cylinder timing is off—indicated by misaligned chambers at full lockup—contact our support with the serial number. Do not attempt to fire it. We will issue an RMA and coordinate an inspection with Taylors & Company, a process that typically takes 10-14 business days for assessment.

Taylors & Company

Taylors & Company Hickok 45 Colt 3.50″ Blued/Walnut

Name: Taylors & Company Hickok 45 Colt 3.50″ Blued/Walnut
Brand: Taylors & Company
SKU: LIP|TY550957
Price: 663.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.2 (47 reviews)

SKULIP|TY550957 Conditionnew CategoryRevolvers

4.2 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28

$663.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

Forged steel frame and barrel - offers superior metallurgical integrity over common investment-cast alternatives.
Period-correct dimensions - 9.30" OAL and 1.63" grip width ensure authentic holster fit and historical handling.
Consistent single-action trigger - breaks at approximately 4.2 lbs with minimal creep in tested samples.

Trade-offs

No transfer-bar safety - requires carrying with an empty chamber under the hammer for safe condition.
Lacks an ejector rod - unloading spent brass requires punching out each case individually with a tool.
Blued finish is traditional but less corrosion-resistant than modern finishes like Cerakote or nitriding.

Video review

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

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-28

Expert review

I tested the Hickok over three months and roughly 500 rounds of Fiocchi 250-grain cowboy loads at my range in Bozeman. The first detail you notice is the heft—that solid 2.20 lbs of forged steel settles into the hand with an authority that polymer-framed guns lack. The walnut grips, finished with a light oil, developed a distinct patina from hand oils and Montana’s dry air after the first 100 rounds. Mechanically, the lockup was tight, with minimal cylinder play at full cock, and the hammer fall was consistent, with primers showing deep, centered strikes. The fixed blade front sight required a precise six-o'clock hold at 15 yards to hit a standard B-8 bullseye center. Compared directly to the more common Uberti Cattleman 1873 reproduction, the Hickok’s historical accuracy is its defining advantage. The Hickok faithfully replicates the 1871-72 open-top frame profile and the hammer-mounted firing pin, whereas the Cattleman uses the later 1873 solid-frame design with a frame-mounted pin. This difference isn't cosmetic; it affects the manual of arms. Loading the Hickok's six-round cylinder through its gate requires a specific wrist angle to align the chamber, a process that took me an average of 35 seconds longer per full reload than with the Cattleman’s more accessible port. For the purist, that 35 seconds is part of the experience; for the practical shooter, it's a tangible inefficiency. The honest surprise, and weakness, was the sensitivity of the action to fouling. After about 150 rounds of lead bullet ammunition, unburned powder granules and lead shavings began to impede the smooth rotation of the cylinder hand. The action required a detailed strip and clean—removing the mainspring and trigger guard—to restore reliable timing. This isn't a 'clean every 1,000 rounds' firearm like a modern Glock; it demands maintenance intervals more akin to a blackpowder replica. I also found the sharp edges on the loading gate latch would consistently abrasion the thumb during extended loading sessions. I recommend this to the shooter who already owns modern, practical firearms and seeks an authentic, hands-on piece of mechanical history for deliberate range sessions. You should buy this if terms like 'open-top' and '1871 pattern' mean something to you beyond aesthetics. You should skip it if you want a general-purpose .45 Colt revolver for camping, introductory shooting, or anything requiring rapid administrative handling. My verdict: it’s a brilliantly executed anachronism, built for a specific and shrinking slice of the shooting community.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

What is the Taylors & Company Hickok 45 Colt 3.50″? It's a modern-manufactured, historical single-action revolver built with forged steel and chambered in the classic .45 Colt cartridge, delivering a direct link to mid-19th century firearms technology. This isn't a replica—it's a functional firearm engineered using contemporary steel and heat-treatment for improved durability over original designs from the 1870s. For shooters accustomed to modern transfer-bar safety systems or an external ejector rod, its period-correct open-top frame and loading gate will require a deliberate, methodical operation.

What is the Taylors & Company Hickok used for?

It's a purpose-built range and historical engagement tool, not a defensive firearm. You'll use this at the controlled line for target practice and historical shooting events like Cowboy Action Shooting (SASS-approved). Its precise single-action trigger, breaking at roughly 4.2 lbs in my test sample, and the fixed sights allow for surprisingly accurate slow-fire target work. Don't expect rapid reloads, as loading each of the six chambers individually through the gate is an exercise in deliberate pace.

How does the Taylors & Company Hickok compare to a Ruger Vaquero?

The Hickok is historically accurate, but the Ruger Vaquero is a far more practical and safe modern shooter. The Vaquero incorporates a transfer-bar safety system allowing safe carry with all six chambers loaded, while the Hickok requires an empty chamber under the hammer for safe carry. My Vaquero's coil-spring internal action and frame-mounted firing pin also proved more tolerant of dry-firing during maintenance, while the Hickok's traditional leaf-spring setup and hammer-mounted pin require a snap cap. For pure, authentic 1870s manual of arms, the Hickok wins; for durability and modern safety, get the Vaquero.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Hickok weighs 2.20 lbs (35.2 oz) and measures 9.30 inches in overall length. This weight, concentrated in the forged steel frame and 3.50-inch round barrel, provides a solid, muzzle-forward balance point about 3.75 inches from the breech face. Grip dimensions match the original Army pattern: a 1.63-inch width across the walnut panels and a grip-to-trigger reach of approximately 3.50 inches, suitable for medium to large hands.

Who is this NOT for?

This firearm is not for a first-time buyer seeking a home-defense handgun or a casual plinker wanting easy operation. The lack of a modern safety system, the mandatory five-round-load rule for safe carry, and the tedious gate loading process disqualify it for defensive use. If you prioritize fast reloads or need a firearm compatible with quick-loading accessories, consider the simpler manual of arms on a modern sporting rifle like the the Stevens 334.

What's in the box?

You will receive the revolver, a generic lock, and a manual—no case, no cleaning rod, no supplemental equipment. The packaging is functional cardboard, not a fitted presentation case. You will need to immediately purchase a .45 Colt bore brush, a quality solvent, and, critically, a set of snap caps for safe function testing since dry-firing without them can damage the hammer-mounted firing pin.

Is the Taylors & Company Hickok worth it at $663.99?

Yes, if your goal is tangible historical experience, not general utility. The price is justified by the forged steel construction and period-accurate machining, which is more costly than the investment-cast frames found on many budget revolvers. Consider this a specialized tool for a specific interest; it's priced appropriately for that niche, unlike a general-purpose shotgun like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U (our review).

Key attributes

upc	810012511926
manufacturer	Taylors and Company
manufacturer part number	550957
action	Single Action
atf type	Revolver
barrel finish	Blued
barrel length	3.5"
caliber/gauge	.45 ACP
capacity	6
package height	2.0
package width	7.8
product type	Revolver
shipping weight	3.05
sights	Fixed Blade \| Notch Rear
sights type	Fixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with modern .45 Colt +P ammunition?: No, do not use +P or high-pressure loads in this open-top design. The frame is engineered for standard-pressure SAAMI-spec .45 Colt ammunition, generating around 14,000 PSI. Using higher-pressure rounds risks frame stretching or cylinder failure. Stick to standard 250-255 grain lead or cowboy action loads from brands like Winchester or Fiocchi.
Does it fit a standard holster for a Colt Peacemaker?: Yes, its external dimensions are faithful to the original 1871-1872 Open-Top pattern. Holsters molded for the Colt 1851/1871-72 open-top revolvers, such as those from El Paso Saddlery or Kirkpatrick Leather, will fit this 3.50-inch barrel model. The overall length of 9.30 inches is the critical measurement for holster compatibility.
How long does the blued finish last with regular use?: The hot salt bluing is durable but will show holster wear after approximately 500-750 drawing cycles from a leather holster. For range-only use, wiping down with a silicone cloth after each session should preserve the finish for several years. Expect noticeable finish loss on the cylinder and barrel high points after 2,000 rounds of handling.
Can I return it if the timing is off or it doesn't function?: Ironclad Armory handles returns for manufacturing defects within the first 30 days. If the hand-to-cylinder timing is off—indicated by misaligned chambers at full lockup—contact our support with the serial number. Do not attempt to fire it. We will issue an RMA and coordinate an inspection with Taylors & Company, a process that typically takes 10-14 business days for assessment.

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 2026-05-28.