COLT SAA 1ST GEN for Sale
Browse colt saa 1st gen listings from verified sellers across the U.S. on GunsAmerica.
Quick Look
The Colt Single Action Army (SAA) 1st Generation revolvers were introduced in 1873 and became the standard military sidearm. Designed for rugged reliability and chambered for powerful cartridges, the 1st Gen SAA quickly gained favor among soldiers, lawmen, and western settlers. Today, these early-production revolvers are prized collector firearms known for their historical value and craftsmanship.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Iconic design from the American frontier era
- Hand-fitted precision from Colt's original factory
- Chambered in classic calibers like .45 Colt
- High demand among collectors and historians
- Legacy status from military and civilian use
Key Variants
SAA 1st Gen Blackpowder Frame
Produced before 1896, these early frames lack the transverse cylinder pin latch and are highly collectible.
SAA 1st Gen Smokeless Transition
Made between 1896–1900, these revolvers bridged the shift from blackpowder to smokeless loads.
SAA 1st Gen Artillery Model
Often rebuilt from Cavalry models, these 5.5-inch versions served during the Spanish-American War.
SAA 1st Gen Cavalry Model
Original 7.5-inch barreled sidearms issued to U.S. troops in the late 19th century.
SAA 1st Gen Civilian Configuration
Commercial sales with varied barrel lengths and custom grips for civilian buyers out west.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Colt SAA 1st Gen | Remington Model 1875 | Smith & Wesson Schofield |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | N/A (Antique) | N/A (Antique) | N/A (Antique) |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Weight | ~2.3 lbs | ~2.5 lbs | ~2.4 lbs |
| Optics Ready | No | No | No |
| Trigger Type | Single-action | Single-action | Single-action |
| Notable Pro | Proven frontier and military use | Top strap design for durability | Break-top reload faster |
| Notable Con | No modern safety features | Limited production numbers | Smaller aftermarket support |
Best Use Cases
- Historical collection centerpiece
- Western and military reenactments
- Revolver shooting exhibitions
- Investment-grade antique weapon
- Display for firearms museums
FAQs
What is a Colt SAA 1st Gen?
It refers to Single Action Army revolvers manufactured by Colt from 1873 to 1941, prized by collectors.
How does a Colt SAA 1st Gen differ from later generations?
1st Gen models were built with early metallurgy techniques and blackpowder-era designs, often with numbered parts.
Can I shoot modern .45 Colt in a 1st Gen SAA?
Only if deemed safe by a qualified gunsmith; many were built for blackpowder loads only.
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