Make: U.S. Firearms (USFA)
Model: Single Action Army
Serial Number: 22248
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 2003-2004
Caliber: .38-40 WCF
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Barrel Length: 7 1/2"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece Eagle "Ultimate Ivory" faux-ivory panels. The grips have minor handling wear with a few tiny marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color
Finish Originality: Original, numbers match.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9+/10
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are only a few scattered tiny marks and faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver includes a John Taffin Collection Certificate of Authenticity.
Our Assessment: Colt's Model 1873, the Single Action Army, is the "gun that won the west", perhaps the most iconic handgun of all time. For nearly 150 years, the gun has been produced in a variety of configurations, finishes and calibers. This revolver is the absolute closest to a Colt you can get without a pony on the side. This USFA has a blue and case color finish with a 7 1/2" barrel, chambered for the classic .38-40 Winchester cartridge. It is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen infrequent and gentle use. Produced "under the Blue Dome", it was actually made in the old Colt factory in Hartford and made right here in the USA, unlike many of the SAA reproductions. For collectors and shooters, this SAA is both a practical revolver and an appealing custom piece from the notable collection of prolific gun-writer John Taffin. Please see our photos and good luck!
