USFA Firearms

U.S. Fire Arms Manufacturing Company, commonly known as USFA, built its reputation in Hartford, Connecticut, on premium Single Action Army style revolvers that paid close attention to the original Colt pattern. The firm operated under the historic Colt “Blue Dome” and moved from fitting imported parts to producing its own frames, cylinders, and small parts in house with modern CNC machinery. For many enthusiasts and collectors, USFA revolvers rank among the finest American made single actions of the modern era, often compared directly with Colt in fit, finish, and shooting characteristics. The company later shifted to the futuristic USFA ZiP .22 pistol, a modular .22 LR bullpup that aimed for innovation but ultimately marked the end of the brand.

Single Action Revolver Accuracy And Control

USFA built its core line around precise timing, consistent cylinder lockup, and carefully fitted barrels. These details give USFA Single Action Army style revolvers a reputation for tight groups and predictable point of impact that stands out in the cowboy action and single action communities. Case hardened frames, well cut crowns, and properly regulated sights help shooters place rounds with confidence at typical revolver distances. Many owners report that USFA guns match or surpass factory Colt SAA revolvers in smoothness and accuracy while retaining the classic look and handling of the 1873 pattern.

Range And Competition Ready USFA Performance

USFA revolvers are commonly seen in cowboy action matches and on the range as high end working guns, not just display pieces. The company offered models suited to regular use, from more value oriented Rodeo series revolvers with matte finishes to high polish case colored examples aimed at serious competitors and collectors. Consistent triggers, well shaped grips, and correct single action ergonomics support fast follow up shots and controlled recoil, which matters for timed stages and extended range sessions. Owners who put thousands of rounds through their USFA sixguns often highlight how well they hold timing and feel even after significant use.

USFA Craftsmanship, Materials, And Longevity

From the beginning, USFA emphasized U.S. made parts, modern steels, and close tolerance machining. Frames and cylinders were produced with modern processes, then finished with traditional methods such as color case hardening and high polish bluing in the Old Armory Custom Shop. The result is a line of revolvers that feels substantial in the hand and that has shown long term durability in the hands of competitors and serious shooters. Even after USFA ceased revolver production around 2011, demand on the secondary market has remained strong, which reflects the perceived quality and longevity of these guns.

Product Focus

ZiP .22 Long Rifle Platform

USFA’s final major project was the USFA ZiP .22, a radical .22 Long Rifle bullpup style pistol designed to work with Ruger 10/22 magazines. The ZiP .22 LR platform positioned the gun as the core of a modular system with planned accessories that could convert it into a carbine type setup or mount it underneath another rifle. Compact dimensions, a straight blowback action, and a very unconventional forward charging arrangement gave the ZiP a futuristic profile that stood apart from traditional rimfire pistols. In actual use, the ZiP .22 gained a reputation for frequent malfunctions, awkward controls, and challenging ergonomics. Feeding and ejection issues were common complaints among owners and reviewers, which limited its appeal as a serious training tool or plinking pistol. Production ended not long after introduction, and the resources devoted to the ZiP project coincided with USFA’s exit from the revolver market. Today the ZiP .22 Long Rifle platform is mainly of interest to collectors of unusual designs and to enthusiasts who follow the final chapter of USFA history.

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Pistols

USFA’s core pistols were its Single Action Army style revolvers, produced in Hartford under the Blue Dome in the old Colt Armory complex. Early production relied on imported parts that were hand fitted and finished in the United States, but USFA later transitioned to complete in house manufacture of frames, cylinders, and key components. Offerings included traditional Single Action Army style guns, premium engraved and custom shop models, and more workmanlike Rodeo variants that delivered the same core mechanics with simpler finishes. Shooters praise these revolvers for crisp single action triggers, tight cylinder lockup, and classic Colt style lines. Many knowledgeable collectors consider late production, all U.S. made USFA revolvers to be among the best postwar interpretations of the Peacemaker concept. They remain highly desirable for cowboy action competition, range use, and serious collections that focus on the 1873 pattern.

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USFA Collectibility And Market Value

USFA firearms now occupy a strong position in the collectible revolver market. Production numbers were modest compared to larger makers, and the company’s closure means no new examples are entering circulation. As a result, clean USFA Single Action Army style revolvers, particularly late production all U.S. made guns and Old Armory Custom Shop pieces, often command premium prices among serious collectors. The ZiP .22 has followed a different path. Its poor reputation as a shooter has kept prices relatively modest compared to the revolvers, yet its distinctive styling and short production run have given it a niche following. For many enthusiasts, a complete USFA collection includes both high grade single actions and at least one ZiP .22 Long Rifle example to represent the brand’s final, experimental phase.

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Frequently asked questions

What made USFA revolvers stand out?

USFA revolvers combined modern machining and steels with traditional styling, case hardening, and hand fitting. Many experts and competitors rank them among the finest Single Action Army style revolvers produced in recent decades and note that they compare very favorably with contemporary Colt examples.

Did USFA really build guns in the old Colt Armory?

Yes. USFA operated in the East Armory building of the historic Colt factory complex in Hartford, often referred to as the Blue Dome. The company was the last firearm maker still working there before closing.

What is the USFA ZiP .22?

The USFA ZiP .22 is a compact .22 LR semi automatic bullpup style pistol that uses Ruger 10/22 magazines and was intended as the center of a modular system with carbine and underslung rifle configurations. It drew attention for its futuristic shape and low price, but widespread reports of malfunctions and awkward controls limited its success.

Are USFA guns still made?

No. USFA stopped producing its famed single action revolvers around 2011 and shifted its focus to the ZiP .22 project. Production of the ZiP ended a few years later, and the company formally dissolved in 2017.

Are USFA revolvers suitable for competition?

Yes. Many cowboy action and target shooters use USFA single actions as primary match guns. Their smooth actions, consistent lockup, and quality barrels support accurate shooting and reliable performance across extended match schedules.

Where can I buy USFA firearms today?

USFA firearms now trade exclusively on the secondary market. Collectors and shooters often look to auction sites, specialized dealers, and online marketplaces such as GunsAmerica for Single Action Army style USFA revolvers and the occasional ZiP .22 pistol.

About

U.S. Fire Arms Manufacturing Company operated from 1993 until 2017 and became known first for high grade Colt Single Action Army style revolvers built in Hartford, then later for its short lived ZiP .22 project. From its location under the Blue Dome to its focus on precise single actions, the firm carved out a respected place among enthusiasts who value American made craftsmanship. Although production has ended, USFA sixguns still hold a strong reputation in the single action community.

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