Why was the Colt Peacemaker so popular?

[@hickok45]

I pretty much agree. So often I see comments regarding the obvious superiority of the S&W top-break revolvers due to faster ejection and reloading. Many cannot imagine as to why those would not have dominated the market. Some advantage there, of course, especially for cavalry, but in the civilian world of actual gun fights, where we're going to run out of time before we run out of ammo, it just isn't that big a deal. The Colt ergonomics, reliability, and simplicity tend to win out. People voted with their dollars. Likewise, nothing uglier than a Glock, but the simplicity and reliability grabbed people's imagination back in the '80's.

[@ClickClack_Bam]

There's a case study on this very thing that they teach in college. A company that made & sold razors went "all in" on the idea that there's no way that Americans would buy cheap disposable steel razors over buying quality lifetime straight razors. They could buy once & have for life INSTEAD of buying & throwing away razors over & over again. Well you know who won here cause show me the guy who uses a straight razor instead of disposable razors. FYI I have a straight razor. Don't use it all the time, but I bought a refurbished straight razor & it's wild to own something that is of such quality that it can last SEVERAL lifetimes EASILY!

[@jimh6763]

Yes, but no one ever discussed the price factor. Colts were much cheaper than S&W. I'm sure lots bought them for that reason alone!

[@hoppinggnomethe4154]

And them idiots still call hickok45 a fudd 😂

[@jerryorange5140]

I worked in Afghanistan with a former police officer who said "a Glock is a soulless piece of plastic that will save your ass every time."

[@rodfast8196]

And , of course, the 1873 colt , imo, was by far the best looking.

[@bobhazeel]

The Colt SAA is a work of art, it just looks so right. The Colt 1911 is in the category, both timeless designs. The fact both are still being sold well over 100 years later proves the point.

[@johnsheetz6639]

The browning hi power as well imo

[@jedpeeler4199]

I have a bunch of them, and I especially like the 5 inch and 7 1/2 inch models. They are built to last, and the craftsmen who built them ,like artisans. I will never trade them. I have repaired the 5 inch nickeled model several times and got it back in action quickly. I reload .45 Long Colt rounds for them, even making my own ammunition for them. Some cases have been reloaded over twenty times, with bullets I make myself.

[@RowdyYates-x6n]

There was no 5 inch model. Ignoring the Buntline, barrel lengths of the SAA were 4 3/4, 5 1/2 and 7 1/2 inches.@@jedpeeler4199

[@Valor_73737]

I learned to shoot the Colt SAA in the late 1940s and early 50s as a young boy. I have two, one made in 1904 chambered to .38 WCF, or 38-40 cartridge originally designed for the Winchester model '73! Colt soon chambered the SAA to that original black powder cartridge and the .44-40 so that one could use the same ammo in his long gun and handgun. I carried that SAA for many years, and it saved my life in Jan 1973. In the late '80s I became aware of its value and purchased a new generation SAA in .45 LC. That has been my primary carry sidearm since that time. The reason I prefer the SAA is, for me at least, is its "point-ability"! At any distant under 10 yards or so the gun shoots where I am looking without the use of sights, like pointing my finger. I can not do that with any other sidearm.

[@christophercolt1361]

Shoot Somebody With It And Watch How It Disappears From You In Somebody's Collection!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ToreDL87]

@@Valor_73737 Might I ask how you came to depend upon it for your life?

[@Valor_73737]

@@ToreDL87 Late one night I returned home to my cabin in the foothills west of Denver. As I drove up I noticed in my headlights the front door was ajar. Sensing something was wrong I took the old Colt and approached the door. Standing to one side as I had been trained I pushed the door open and was instantly welcomed by two shots that would have hit me had I been standing in the doorway. Startled, I fell backwards on the ground as a figure appeared in the doorway looking to see where I had gone. Two quick shots to the center of mass ended the confrontation. Only illumination was from street light about a block away. Sights were useless!

[@ToreDL87]

@@Valor_73737 😨 I'm sorry that person made you pull the trigger, because they most certainly did. Streetlight a block away from a cabin sounds like it was close enough for someone to bother scoping it out!

[@Valor_73737]

@@ToreDL87 It worked out just fine. The deputy that arrived shortly after my call knew the perp, he had been paroled about two weeks before, and there was a warrant for parole violations.

[@TheGrenadier97]

EXCELLENT explanation. Competitors had some advantages but the reality ultimately boils down to that old truth of History: people in the past weren't stupid, or else, we wouldn't be here.

[@majedajaber9064]

I heard another theory, The Smith and Wesson revolvers including the Scofield, could lock up from fouling due to the black powder they used. The other issue is that the extractor could fail to extract rounds if they go gummed up with dirt or powder residue. The Colt while it may have been slower on the reload was more reliable in rough conditions partialy due to the simple extractor.

[@grizzlyblackpowder1960]

That first theory is more true with reproductions of the s&w revolvers than the genuine article. The originals had a small gasket that put a very small gap between the cylinder and frame to cut down on fouling hangup, many of the reproductions don't have this as they extended the cinder for .45colt hence why you will see folks today complain about them. InrangeTV has a video that discusses this.

[@grizzlyblackpowder1960]

The second is true of both the reproductions and the genuine pieces as if there is too much fouling around the cases the extractor will pull them out about halfway, then push them out of the way and the empties will fall below the extractor making it a pain to remove them. There are ways to avoid this though. If the revolver is not empty when you move to reload, open the gun slowly and drop the extractor with the button on the bottom of the gun. This will do two things one keep your unfired rounds seated correctly correctly keep the empties from falling below the extractor at the end of travel. And if the gun is empty, even if you are planning on saving the brass, break the gun open aggressively and "dump" the empty cases at the same time. I know we all want that s&w moment where the empties fly through the air like the movies, but it works better with the help of gravity. And if it's still giving you hangups take it to a gunsmith and have them "slick" the chambers in the cylinder. This is something I do myself but not everyone is comfortable with that. With slicked and oiled chambers the spent brass won't have a tendency to stick or hangup, and should pop out of the gun like in the movies even with a healthy coating of BP fouling. This is also a good thing to do for your SAA or 1875s, as it will allow you to eject spent casings without the rod, by just pointing the gun upward and spinning the cylinder on half cock with the gate open. I spent about 500 dollars and had a used SAA 4 3/4 reproduction tuned, I removed the front post, got better springs machined, replaced the hammer with a fatter version that lays back more, slicked the cylinder and removed the ejector rod. And that may have been a high price because of the guy I went too who had all of the stuff in house, many gunsmiths may not charge as much.

[@catyear75]

It always kind of bugs me when a film set in the 1860’s has all the actors using these pistols ! Lol

[@catyear75]

PS - I agree that the brand name was a big factor in selling these pistols. Merwin Hulberts were built as well or better, but sold few in comparison.

[@filianablanxart8305]

There IS something to high profile Government contracts giving a civilian sales boost . If it is at least a reasonably good product .

[@notforsaletoday1895]

@@filianablanxart8305 agreed. Similar to how people view the 1911, “two world wars”, or the Beretta M9 series, AR15s etc.

[@krockpotbroccoli65]

Hollywood firearm buggery has been a thing since they invented video cameras. It's only recently started to get better thanks, in large part, to the internet.

[@alanpeterson6224]

One of the more famous examples is the movie about the War of 1812 where during the battle of New Orleans,(1814), Andrew Jackson is shown waving around an 1873 Colt single action.

[@414Mustang1]

I'm a bit late posting on this video, but I hope you still see this... One key thing I think you missed is the reliability of the Colt when using black powder cartridges. The first black powder revolver I had was an 1858 Remington replica, but I could barely get 50 rounds through it before the cylinder would become impossible to turn by cocking the hammer. I replaced that with an 1851 Navy Colt clone, which I could shoot as much as I wanted because the base pin had grooves cut into it that the fowling could go into and not lock up the cylinder. Colt did something different with the new cartridge revolvers, they gave the cylinder 3 surfaces on which it could rotate! In the black powder frame, the base pin was held in position by a screw that went into a groove in the base pin, WITHOUT MAKING CONTACT that would stop the base pin from rotating in the frame. The cylinder also had a bushing in the center that was free to rotate around the base pin, but also free to rotate INSIDE of the cylinder. So, the cylinder could rotate on the bushing, the bushing could rotate on the base pin and the base pin could rotate in the frame. All 3 surfaces would have to be completely fowled to stop a Peacemaker's cylinder from turning!

[@bibbyman2]

I actually work on a number of guns and another advantage the Colt single action has is its simplicity of action design and few parts. It's pretty much just an update of the Colt percussion guns that came before it. So it was understood by those that had to maintain and repair them.

[@giuseppegumina5576]

I love Colt ❤

[@PalmettoNDN]

It was fascinating to see the most popular choices in the competitive market all explained for us. Thanks, Mike. You're a treasure and a scholar.

[@Atpost334]

The unbeatable aesthetics of the SAA certainly played a large role. I was talking to a Navy Seal once about handguns. He said “durability and reliability are obviously paramount”. He went on to say “does the cool factor come into play? absolutely”. I would add that as a definite part of the package that you summarize at the end of the video. The SAA just looks amazing. If we’re honest, that’s a large element of its draw (alright, pun intended).

[@GaryED44]

I need to watch this multiple times. a lot I didn't know here. Thanks Mike immediate thumbs up. Never once considered ergonomics with a revolver

[@SGTUSMCVET269]

Collecting folks are thus. Pistol users love their guns more. Intimacy only comes from frequently contact and use.

[@Sheltowee1775]

This was a fabulous presentation. Beautiful photos I assume you took. This could have been a college lecture. A book needs to be in your future.

[@andrewyording4284]

I've been shooting black powder guns for 39 yrs and about 4 yrs ago started getting a gollection of the old west type guns together that we all grew up watching, Colt SAA, Winchester and other lever guns, coach gun, etc. Have really learned allot from all your videos as well as Hickok45, but yours are very precise and well done. Thank you sir for taking the time to educate us on these guns.

[@jojo82505]

Great video Mike. I can definitely tell a difference in the feel of the grip of the 1875 Remington compared to the Colt. Colt feels better in the hand.

[@charlescomly1]

The Colt SAA was also the simplest to maintain and repair. In my opinion.

[@harveylane932]

Not only Mike Venturing, but Elmer Kieth also contended that the SAA was the fastest gun for the first shot....

[@TightwadTodd]

He convinced my Grandfather to Stay with the Single action,rather than the double action,for his use in the wilderness as a packer...

[@gunfighterzero]

Great video Mike, interesting to hear those production numbers compared and yes i agree a SAA just points so naturally

[@bobsradio6025]

One of the things that I like about the 1873 SAA is that many of the parts are interchangeable with the 1851 Navy, 1860 Army and the 1861 Navy. If a part breaks in a gun that you use a lot, you often can get a replacement right away from another gun that you have. The longer grips on the 1960 Army are great for guys with big hands.

[@BogeyTheBear]

I tried that with the Uberti repros. The triggerguard on the 1860 Army grip is smaller than the Navy grips, and the Cattleman trigger is longer than the percussion Colts. The Cattleman trigger impacted against the guard, and swapping the 1860 trigger into the Cattleman resulted in a gun that would not stick the full cock position (despite eyeballing it and judging the sears to be identical dimensions). Only workaround I could see was grinding the Cattleman trigger shorter.

[@bobsradio6025]

@@BogeyTheBear - Good info. It is true that a little gunsmithing can solve many situations. I had to shorten a trigger spring in one of the switches that I made. In any event, these Italian clones are all close enough that it doesn't take much work to make them work.

[@glenmo1]

Gen Patton originally used a single action 45 Colt in his fighting against Pancho villas troops... He actually carried two two Ivory gripped colt .44 saa. During world war II.. gave away one of them to a motion picture star for their bravery then purchased a 357 Magnum again with Ivory grips.. and also carried a colt hammerless.32 semi auto

[@63DW89A]

Thanks Mike for a superb video. One of the best documentaries on the Colt SAA ever made, written OR video. I've long been a fan of Mike Venturino, and have several of his books. BUT, Mike Beliveau is one of the best at quickly and concisely getting complete information right in front of the viewer / reader. If anyone wonders why such an "archaic" design is still being sold in very large numbers, Mike has pretty well answered the question. The mind-boggling fact that 100+ year old Colt designs like 1911's and SAA's are still being produced worldwide by many different manufacturers, is made easy to understand by Mike Beliveau: these two guns in particular balance well, hit hard, are accurate,tough and reliable. The SAA is probably the most universally recognized firearm on the planet. An assailant may think you are bluffing with the Glock, or the pump 12 gauge, or the AR15; point that SAA at him and cock it, he KNOWS, watching that big 45 bullet rotating into barrel alignment, that you ain't bluffing and he can almost feel that big slug going thru his fragile body.

[@davejob630]

Having had one pointed at me, can confirm. (Was pointed by a criminal, in Australia-many years ago.)

[@Stoater1]

This is one of the most interesting videos about firearms I have ever seen. I love the history behind these guns. Thank you for making this. I have, of course subscribed today.

[@marioacevedo5077]

Thanks for these videos as you got me back into guns eight years ago. First with black powder, then SAA, and now I have a collection of all types. Appreciate your historical accuracy.

[@jeannemathews9575]

Well done, Mike! I couldn't agree more with your opinion on the SAA's ergonomics. When I was 15 years old an adult friend brought out his 1901 SAA for me to hold (and drool over). In spite of its 7 1/2-inch barrel the weapon had a perfect balance, and a natural point, even for a kid. The most comfortable and "natural" handgun I've ever handled.

[@DeerHunter308]

One of a handful of guns that are icons in their class. A totally beautiful work and a true masterpiece.

[@reliom9836]

I think there is also another important ragion because it was so popular: because it is beautiful!!!!!

[@robertmigash4989]

Loved the video. I have a Great Western II Alchimista in 44-40 (7.5 barrel)and a Ruger super Blackhawk in 44 mag (small frame 5.5 barrel). I love both guns they fit my hands perfectly and they both shoot great.

[@Harold710]

I had a ruger super Blackhawk 44 mag for winter snowmachining (moose) in Alaska but the recoil was too much for me. I traded it in for a 45 long colt. My summer protection (bears) was a marlin 45-70 lever rifle but I switched to a mossberg 12 g pump.

[@jefferyvollers2705]

Great job Mike, I have a Colt 3rd Gen. just like the cavalry model you were holding. It has a rare black powder frame. Thank you for the video.

[@billhammett174]

like some wag once said about ABBA: they were better than they needed to be; same applies to the Colt SSA. Great video.

[@williamgunnarsson]

It was esthetically beautiful. It has exceptional point-ability. The mechanics of it and design was state-of-the-art for that period of time. Also, other Colt models had been very popular from the Civil War on up to the introduction of the 1873, so there was a definite product loyalty at work there, which increased sales of the Colt SAA revolver.

[@chroma6947]

I wouldnt say state of the art considering you could buy a bulldog for a 1/3rd of the price and it was DA/SA and you could carry a full cylinder safely

[@dough6759]

@@chroma6947 Well, I'd rather buy a bulldog than a poodle any day of the week!

[@robertsansone1680]

According to the British experts Hogg & Weeks, "The Colt balanced like a fine dueling pistol & had more than enough power to put any man out of action straight away". "Anything that went wrong with it could be mended with a hammer." "(or a rock)" Great information. Thank You

[@sgtmajtrapp3391]

Outstanding historical review. When I was a kid one of our major banks had a guard who carried a 5.5" Colt SAA in .45 Colt. I remember that to this day, a gun shop I frequent had this very gun for sale sometime back, 15 years I suspect and still kick myself for not getting it. I have two 4.75" Colt SAA revolvers in .45 Colt and agree it feels good in the hand and is a natural pointer. I carry one of these now and then out and about. The first five bad guys will be in dire trouble. Reloading fast cant really be accomplished but I carry a .45 Colt Speed strip which can with practice reload faster than loose or looped ammo.

[@HircineDaWolf]

a mosin nagant stripper clip kind of works as well but they can fall out

[@opencarry3860]

Your not alone. Most of us gun guys have one major regret when it comes to missing out on a gun purchase. Don't forget that one regret on selling a firearm you now wish you still had too.

[@bobsradio6025]

I wasn't around during the 1800's, but I have heard that the speed loaders of those days were several extra loaded cylinders for the cap and ball revolvers.

[@allentempleton2429]

Another wonderful video. Thanks Mike.

[@richardelliott9511]

@@bobsradio6025there is vertually no historical documentation of spare cylinders being carried unlike everyone that has ever watched Pale Rider seems to think. However lots of evidence of multiple revolvers being carried as depicted in The Outlaw Josie Wales.

[@CarlosGarcia-gf7nj]

Thank you for making this video I really enjoy not only the beautiful Colt guns but the history of it

[@donaldmyck4296]

I have eleven Colt Single Action Armies. Loved them since I was a kid and saw my first "Ken Maynard" western way back when.

[@duelist1954]

I envy you. I only own two SSAs.

[@donaldmyck4296]

@@duelist1954 I thought you'd have a bunch. A few of mine have odd barrel lengths. Bought one from Carol Wilkerson. nickel plated .357 mag. with a four inch barrel with an ejector. One of these days I'm going to check to see how rare it is. Take care.

[@ILoveMuzzleloading]

I feel like I'm taking a class on revolvers!

[@kneedeepinbluebells5538]

Mine Is The Humble .22 Magnum Version With A Non Fluted Cylinder ... I LOVE It Beyond Measure ! Thanks For A Great Video

[@felixcat9318]

You present a clear, credible and compelling analysis, and do so superbly!

[@johnshelley842]

Mike I have watched your videos for years and I am convinced you know your stuff👍...thumbs up my freind...

[@duelist1954]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@johnhampton8659]

Great history lesson Thanks Mike

[@caroltroyschmitt6352]

I have been collecting single action army colts since I was 35 years old and now I'm 79, I can only say one thing they are the best they shoot the best. They are a work of art. Absolutely beautiful guns

[@FiReInMyBoNeS9711]

Just wanted to say thank you for all your videos, probably one of the main reasons I got into shooting the old-style revolvers. I currently own an 1858 Remington repro and I just got my first Walker

[@timmytwodogs]

Really interesting take on the SAA. Well done for sure. I have worked on Colts for a while and one day an acquaintance brought me a Remington clone made by Uberti. Frankly, it had the worst trigger I had ever felt. I took it down and hand polished the internals and replaced the main spring. It was still just miserable to shoot. The SAA has what must be the most sensible internals of any handgun. Easy to tune and when tuned, smooth as silk. The Colt SAA is still considered the fastest revolver to get into play from the holster. I think that the late Bob Munden would agree. Thanks for a most informative video Mike.

[@donsal.t.1765]

I've been thinking of getting a Uberti Cattleman.. I should probably stay away from Uberti?

[@KLR-650]

@@donsal.t.1765 I have two Uberti's and they are fine guns. My El Patron is as smooth as glass.

[@donsal.t.1765]

@@KLR-650 that's good enough for me then👍 thanks.

[@davidschaadt3460]

The Uberti Colt clones are real nice I have two now and had several over the years .I have a .45 Colt ,and a .44-40 WCF.

[@paul55austria51]

@@donsal.t.1765 Nope, I have both the Pietta and the Uberti. These are really okay. I do think that the tuning of the Piettas and the finish are slightly better than the Uberti. The steel of the clones may be slightly softer than the original Colt, USFA or Standard. Manuf.. But if you don't shoot too heavy loads, that's certainly no problem. You can also have problems with Colt, especially with the third Gen. So.....

[@mauromazzorana3303]

Good video. I have to agree 1oo%.The Colt SAA revolver was a jewel of its era so to speak. A piece of art that contributed to the making of a nation, an American icon.

[@happyhaunter_5546]

I ADORE my Uberti (from Taylor's and Co) 1873. 4.25" barrel. As a modern gun guy, I didn't know how I'd feel about the sights, but man is that thing ACCURATE and a joy to shoot!

[@rapidrrobert4333]

Thanks Mike, it's obvious that these are close to your heart. Excellent lecture!

[@cliffchilders5820]

Mr B. I absolutely love the Colt peacemaker, but hv nvr been able to afford one! But I do hv a Ruger new Vaquero in 45 Colt tht I absolutely love! I've modified it a little to look more like a Colt....but it's still a Ruger!!! I bot it in 2004, and I hv shot thsnds of rounds thru it, and it keeps on shooting!! Thnx for your time!!! And great video!!!! Shoot strait.... Shoot often!!!!

[@scooterbob4432]

I had a 7 1/2" Vaquero 45 but sold it because I didn't like the weight, sort of top heavy. I am shopping around now for a real Colt 45 also with the 7 1/2" barrel.

[@terrysmith8714]

Closest I ever came to owning a model "P" , are my Ruger Black hawks. The only time I would carry, was hunting. I have a few, only one chambered in 45ACP, shoots very very well at targets. Again, great video and history. Thank you.

[@donnacorrell3527]

Superb video; you give the numbers to back up your theories, and the personal points (like the royalties issue with S&W) that make your videos so complete. Great job!

[@duelist1954]

Thanks!

[@chermartin7994]

Thanks for a great description of the history of single action revolvers. I grew up watching cowboy shows on tv and have always loved “cowboy guns” and have a few, but yet to get a colt. Someday….

[@JarmoLaakso]

How did the prices compare? Known, reliable and a dollar cheaper would be a big selling point.

[@duelist1954]

In 1873, the Army paid $13 for Colt SAAs, Civilians paid $17.50. The Model 1875 Remington Cost $18 The Model 1888 Remington cost $10.00 The Model 1890 Remington was $12.50

[@notforsaletoday1895]

@@duelist1954 you mean Remington 1858? Or something else?

[@notforsaletoday1895]

@@duelist1954 how much were cap and ball colts at the time? IE 1851 Navy, 1860 Army etc. And how about Merwin and Hulberts at the time too?

[@duelist1954]

@@notforsaletoday1895 No. Remington 1888. It was a transitional model between the 1875 and 1890

[@JarmoLaakso]

@@notforsaletoday1895 There might be enough there for a whole another video. :D But yea, seems like maybe the best known brand is also cheaper than "best" competitors, and maybe used older examples cheaper than the cheap alternatives.

[@keiththomas3141]

When you slowly pull back the trigger and hear the revolver sing out it's beautiful music then you understand why the Colt SA has been loved so much. The gun has a perfect weight and fits perfectly in your hand. When you shoot the Colt .45 SA the gun pleasantly rocks back in your hand and gives a solid feel that makes you want to load more bullets into the gun and empty them into a rotting stump. I prefer the Colt .45 SA and even the Uberti knock offs. They're like a fine watch.

[@acratone8300]

There are 4 click sounds: Doh! Bart come here!

[@TheLoneRanger745]

I'm So GLAD I FOUND YOU, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE HISTORY LESSON BEHIND THE EVOLUTION OF THESE MAGNIFICENT FIREARMS, ( SUBSCRIBED)

[@danmichaud580]

Read most of the comments and yes I agree with the majority. It's beautiful, looks rugged and dependable and OMG I want one. :-) . Probably someone back then said the same thing.

[@johnt.chambers4204]

I agree that the SAA is just a better feeling gun all the way around than anything else made at the time. I would also add familiarity as a factor. Once you get used to any gun you develop a feel for that gun or one like it. I practice fast draw a lot and have for many years. I have a 1851 that I cut down at least 30 years ago to 5 inches. I can get it into play faster than any gun I own mostly because, over the years, I have just gotten used to the way it feels and handles. Another excellent video, I always enjoy them.

[@tomvawter4531]

Outstanding presentation Mike! An iconic and elegant handgun for sure!

[@kylewood8327]

I learned to shoot on a Ruger Blackhawk back in the late 70’s, then bought my first revolver (1982) S&W M19. Revolvers are still my favorite shooters to this day!

[@mr.thickey3959]

“Ach du lieber, BIG MIKE”! Did you hit this nail on the HEAD! Your “treatise” (?) on an “outstandingly wonderful gun” was a MAJOR EDUCATION to behold!! You must have done major research on this subject! For this, I, Mr. Thickey, dub you “KING” of ALL the fine gun reviewers on KZbin!!! And there are some excellent ones out there too! You always talk like a “gentleman” (only heard maybe one or two “mild nasties” over your history on KZbin!)! I’d be very proud to show any of your gun reviews to my family or friends! Wonder if you could have ommited maybe one essential reason, TO ME anyway, this revolver was so greatly popular, maybe not terribly important, but that was of “AESTHETICS” or physical BEAUTY of this gun’s design! “You shoot better if the gun looks great”! Wonder if gun owners way back then had an EYE for “sculptural beauty”, like they seem to LACK today (ugly AR15 black guns today!)! Did they have the same “EYE FOR BEAUTY” in women too? Anyvay, Mike, even though I’m 82 now, you have blessed my “gun-lovin’ life” with much pleasure! Sure hope the LORD blesses you with many more years of doing what you just did here in this video!!! Never forget to show those “lusty close-up photos” of the guns you review! “Gesundheit”!

[@larrykline6700]

Mike, I appreciate the time you take to tell the history of the weapons you shoot.

[@TUCOtheratt]

This was a very interesting video giving the statistics and detailed history of my favorite hand gun.😃

[@eddierudolph8702]

Thank you for answering the difference about that and the Remington 1875, I knew there was something different but I couldn't judge it from the photos I've seen.

[@johnmadow5331]

I owned one made in 1968 that never been fired condition. The caliber is .357/38 special. It call colt New Frontier about 6” barrel.

[@boneharvester_eth4021]

I just bought my first revolver. Smith Wesson 627-5 performance center (8) shot. It looks similar to the schofield? Thanks for these video and information 🇺🇸

[@SGTUSMCVET269]

The colt is a natural fighting man’s weapon, just like Brownings 1911. I like the feeling of the colt. Carrying a Schofield as a back up or solution to an extended fight is preferable.

[@AmatureAstronomer]

Mighty fine revolver, even today! My favorite side arm. Works well with my favorite long arm, the Shiloh Sharps 45/70.

[@terrysmith8714]

Fantastic video Mike. Great history., Also like you said 45Colt correctly. Most people call it 45 Long Colt, Never was a" long colt". Just like the Winchester 30-30, Winchester 30 WCF. Public named it 30-30, so Winchester started stamping the 94, 30-30. due to popular public designation. Thanks again Mike. Cheers.

[@mikehagan4320]

Though wasn't it Colt that started calling the .45 Colt the .45 Long Colt. If that is correct either name would be Correct. Or was it the Army that used the " Long Colt " Nomenclature? What are your thoughts? M.H.

[@richardelliott9511]

@@mikehagan4320 I don't know who started calling it the long colt but I doubt it was Colt, much more likely to have been an Army thing, even if not officially. The army did have a logistics problem with the 45 colt and the 45S&W not being interchangable. The confusion was probably made even worse, at least for a while anyway, by the adoption of the m1888(7?) cartridge which could be used in either the SAA or the Schofield. In any case the "Long" moniker was added by some to make a further distinction between the Colt round and the others. This was precidented by many cartridges that were legthened to increase powder capacity and thus power and called by the parent cartridges name with "long" added to distinguish the two. The 38long colt and the 32S&W long, which are actual correct nomenclature, are just a couple of better know examples.Later, Marlin even had a 44 40 long but I can't remember how it was specifically designated. Anyway, people naturally accepted it and 45LC carries on in common useage to this day, even though technically such a cartridge doesn't exist. Much the same cituation exists with what is now commonly refered to as the 45 Schofield, when in the day it was simply the 45S&W. Unlike others that feel the need to make a big deal about this, after such a long time in common use, we should consider both to be correct and give it a rest. Language is fluid and evolves, my tissues may not be made by Kleenex but I still call them by that name and everyone knows what I mean...lol.

[@billbearback2591]

I enjoy all your videos , I've just been reading about the 4f g use of powder as opposed to the early use of 2f g and the conical bullets and paper cartridge from an old chat on the high road forum and while searching your vids on paper cartridges and conical with the various calibre I found this little gem of a video , thanks for sharing cobber

[@richardelliott9511]

I enjoyed this video but want get to where you came from! I have played with 4f cartridge loads but after reading in the Blackpowder Cartridge News of a bad experience that Steve Garbe wrote of I have stuck with only using these loads in modern made guns. I have a very nice BP 45acp load, quite the head turner at the range!

[@63DW89A]

@@richardelliott9511 NOT a good idea to use heavy 4Fg charges in a cartridge, unless the gun is modern and capable of handling magnum pressure. In original percussion revolver combustible cartridges, "Hazard Cartridge Powder" was actually about 5Fg, but the charge weights were roughly 10% conical bullet weight (22 grs for a 220 grain conical bullet). The .455 Webley Mk 1 cartridge used 18 grains of what British black powder makers called "Revolver Powder", (roughly 5Fg screened size), and could get a 265 grain bullet to about 750 fps from a 5" barrel even with only a 6.8% charge-to-bullet ratio. I have a reprint of the 1910 version of "WW GREENER's THE GUN" and in it Greener notes that even a nitro proofed double rifle can rupture a barrel when using a long cartridge case full of fine grained (4Fg / 5Fg) black powder. Greener's theory was that the rapid combustion of fine grain BP at the rear of a long column of fine grained BP drove the rear of the powder column forward with such force into the middle points of the charge that the charge "percussion detonated" at several points in the middle creating a possible tremendous pressure peak, IF the detonations were in phase. Around this same era, U.S. Navy pressure tests showed that long columns of fine grained BP could occasionally produce pressure peaks of 100,000 psi, giving some credence to Greener's theory of "in phase mid charge detonations". Most handgun cartridges are too short for detonation to occur, but in a rifle case like the 45-70 or 45-120, it is possible that such a long powder column could detonate, if fully loaded with 4Fg / 5Fg. That being said, I don't think I'd load a full 40 grains of 4Fg / 5Fg in a 45 Colt cartridge. With 4Fg / 5Fg, I'd load about 25 grains max, with corn meal on top, and then maybe move up 5 grains at a time, watching for pressure signs just like a smokeless load. The 25 grain 4Fg / 5Fg with corn meal filler load would likely be safe in any gun, but at full charge levels of 4Fg / 5Fg in a 45 Colt cartridge, I'd be using a Ruger Blackhawk to test with, and watch carefully for pressure. I'd fire 100 + full charge loads, watching carefully for pressure signs before I was convinced that detonation of fine grain BP could not occur at full 45 Colt charge levels. Just my thoughts and I'm no expert by any stretch of the imagination, being only an interested student of ballistics.

[@billbearback2591]

Richard Elliot , I should have been more careful when I mentioned 4ffff g , as I understand 2ff g was typical in early brass cartridge maybe 3fff g but 4ffffg blackpowder in cartridge was bad , in cap and ball 2ffg was the 1850's revolvers load by 1860's a type of 4ffffg was being used in cap and ball paper cartridge or loose powder but the loads were 1/2 to 2/3 of the old loads there was also I big difference between ball and conical so definitely be real careful with F grades in cartridges, cheers big ears

[@richardelliott9511]

@@billbearback2591 not to worry on my account. I am happy to have the info that you supplied and do not intend to push the situation any further.

[@WhatIfBrigade]

To my mind, the Smith & Wesson Schofield has advantages, but for civilian use in the late 1800s, five rounds was typically more than enough and the Colt 1873 SAA broke down less. Solid frame, great grips.

[@RonW4684]

S&W top breaks also cost more ($15 vs. $10). Also a Colt could chamber Colt 45 and S&W 45, while the S&W could only chamber 45 S&W

[@conradsenior5843]

Nice presentation. Perfectly executed. Fine detail. You didn't skip anything relevant.

[@geraldscott4302]

I have a couple of them. One is black powder only, the other is a couple decades newer. I still only shoot hand loads in both of them. I see a lot of people shooting modern .45 Long Colt ammunition in the later models, but I won't do it. Modern smokeless powder tends to have a lot higher pressures than early 1900s powder, and I have no desire to damage a rare and valuable gun. I don't own a S&W Schofield, but I have shot a couple of them. They are hard to find ammunition for. The Schofield is a nice target shooter, but is a bit complicated. The SAA takes longer to load, and eject the shell casings, but it feels a lot more solid and rugged. And you are definitely right about the feel and ergonomics of the SAA. While other revolvers feel like something you are holding in your hand, the Colt actually feels like part of your hand. It does not feel clumsy or awkward in any way. It can be drawn, cocked, and fired much faster by an experienced shooter than pretty much anything else of the era. The Colt is the only gun of it's time that I have ever seen anyone spin on one finger. You could also hold the trigger back and "fan" the hammer. I have very little information on the Remington or the S&W Russian model. I've never actually seen real ones. Oh, and don't forget the Harrington and Richardson.

[@direktorpresident]

I had a gorgeous Uberti in .357 but had to give it up in the UK after Dunblane. The most pointable revolver I had ever shot

[@frankpollitt8056]

No mention was made with regard to cost having an influence on sales figures. Great article .

[@jeffw1246]

I now have 37 single action clones, Rugers, Pietta, Uberti. 6 are the Thunderer grip 3.5. All are my favorite ccw guns, even though I have several da 357 snubbies and 9mms. It looks like the Remington has a longer reach to the trigger which as you said the Colt feels better. And the 1873 is just gorgeous to boot.

[@john-paulsilke893]

Honestly if you do the work, a SA revolver will definitely work for self defence. Ive carried a modern .22 revolver and since I could shoot the eye out of a squirrel at 15ft I definitely felt perfectly safe and well armed with it. I’m back to Canada so unfortunately I go about unarmed because we don’t have a 2nd amendment. (Honestly it’s probably not necessary for me, but I’d like my wife to be able to carry and defend our children).

[@jeffw1246]

@@john-paulsilke893 I'll get a 22 double action for my girlfriend someday, she has no tolerance for recoil. With my scoped 1022s I can hit empty 50 pack 22 boxes at 100 yards. Very good urban guns 👍

[@jeffstevens156]

Oh yeah, in John Wayne’s movie “ The Shootist”, when Ron Howard is talking about “Mr.Books” pistol’s, He does get the timing a little wrong. But it’s a great movie with a wonderful cast!

[@peteobana8265]

Very well done. Thanks a lot. I was truly entertained. A big thumbs up!!!!

[@keithhagler502]

It was an amazing pistol to have. It came along a bit too late, but it's a good pistol. I never liked the balance and sights as much as with the Navy or a good Dragoon though, and you have to file the front sight on them most of the time to get point of aim or will shoot low, and while preventing some people from breeding is good, the object is to end everything then and there.

[@tnbass2833]

As much as I like the saa and I have several the open top is my absolute favorite single action revolver whether thats in cap and ball form or cartridge.

[@richardelliott9511]

I'm right there with you. In my opinion the creeping rammer percussion Colts are THE most elegant revolvers with the 71/72 Open Tops next, only then followed by the SAA. Fourth place is hottly contested by a wide variety of models but those first 3 are cemented in place!

[@Moroni108]

Duelist1954, I sure appreciate your videos my friend!! 100% quality / 100% educational and entertaining my friend!!

[@duffysullivan2794]

It is true! Growing up with Hollywood and prime time TV westerns, I was never aware of any revolving pistol other than cartridge firing SAA, the Peacemaker. The first time I became aware of cap and ball revolvers was in the early 1990s. I was reading Cormac McCarthy's novel Blood Meridian and Glanton was receiving a shipment of these massive handguns that appeared to be some kind of muzzle loader. What are these? says I. Thus my research began. This was long before the internet was ubiquitous, so I searched my local library and found a book called, Colt Firearms From 1836 by James Serven. That was my introduction to Colt's early pistols, and I was able to identify Glanton's shipment! the 1847 Whitneyville Walker.

[@duster0669]

I fell into a West German Weihrauch ARM 357 SAA clone in the late 80s. A buddy wanted to trade for a junky 1911 I had. I owed him a deal so I made the trade knowing nothing about the SAA. That gun turned out to be the best pistol I had ever owned up to that point. It took several years to learn it's quirks, but it was so accurate I kept at it, and wore it as a bear defense gun in Idaho. It became my partner for over 20 years, and I still have it. It made a SAA fan out of me, and I'm glad I got good at handling that gun. From my experiences and years of toting it around I understand the joy of owning a Colt clone. I made several nice custom leather cowboy belts for that gun. I now have a completed collection, and that gun is one of my favorites. To bad I never came across a good deal on a real Colt. Although I did score an 1899 Winchester model 94 to go with my Weihrauch clone.

[@duelist1954]

I have had several of those over the years. My favorite has been with me since the mid-1990s

[@anthonygalliart1789]

I have 3 EAA Bounty Hunters, one 4.5" blue, one 4.5" nickle and one 7.5" nickle, all .44 mags. One 6" blue Taylor's Cattleman and one Traditions 5.5" color case hardened, both also in .44 mag. They are all copies of the Colt SAA. Must be something good about it and I personally like it too. Thanks for the video Mike

[@jeffstevens156]

Added a sub. Whatever You do, DON’T SELL THAT HOLSTER! Pulling three different guns from a single holster is miraculous. Obviously, I’m kidding. You have a beautiful collection of revolvers. I’m an NCOWS shooter. We strive on accuracy against speed. In fact, if You were to show up to one of Our matches, You’d probably think it’s just a bunch of old farts out for a day of casual shooting. I tend to prefer the 1860 Army open top conversions. They are the most graceful looking cartridge guns I’ve ever seen. Keep up the good work.

[@duster0669]

I stumbled onto one in the late 80s. A friend had one he wanted to trade for a 1911 I had. I figured I owed the guy a good deal so I went for it. It IS a German clone of the 1873, and my learning curve was long. It took several years to get comfortable using that gun. But it was a 357, and so accurate I loved shooting it. It was the most accurate pistol I hade ever had, so I stayed with it, and learned to shoot it. It became my bear defense gun in Idaho, and I carried it everywhere. I still have it. It has been replaced by a S&W model 29 & 28 and a Glock 20, but I use the SAA clone to teach my wife safe hand gun use. Under good supervision a SAA is as good a trainer as a person can have. Yes it's German made, and no it's not a perfect clone being slightly larger. But it has all the look, feel, handling, and internal action parts of the original Colt SAA. It made a fan out of me, and it still shoots spot on accurate.

[@alexpocs8649]

Always loved the SAA, my first cowboy handgun was a 3 screw ruger flat top in 1962. Ruger 87.50, colt 125.00. So I bought the ruger. I now have vaquero and pietta colt SAA clone. The pietta is a great copy of a SAA and I do wish I had bought the Saa colt in 1962 for 125. Many vaqueros in 44-40, 45lc, and 357 have been used with great joy but the Colt SAA still holds a special place in my heart.❤.

[@sallywilson5097]

The handle on the Colt is beautiful!! I have always felt that this was one of the main selling points!!

[@wallaroo1295]

I think one thing to keep in mind when it comes to popularity of the 1880-1900 era, is that right in that time we had the introduction of a massive game changer in the world of firearms for the next 150+ years... smokeless powder. Once it proliferated out of the French military, and through the rest of the militaries - starting with the .30-40 Krag in the US (I think... I'd have to look that one up) - and the Army going first to the .38 Colt, and then to the 1911. We're only talking a time span of 30 years, which sounds like a lot - but that's us and 1990. We just recently got rid of the M9 and we still use a version of the same rifle. But, all that said - I'm not much of a blackpowder guy either - I know enough to know, but not enough to know if the SAA and other .45 Long Colt pistols/rifles were compatible with the high pressure smokeless powder, like modern replicas. Anybody can help me out with that?

[@mkshffr4936]

Smith made a big mistake not pushing the Schofield. Now if they had combined it with a grip and hammer more like the SAA they could have been a real contender.

[@clongshanks5206]

Don’t forget the ammo issue: .45 schofield is just a hair smaller than .45 colt. When the US army tried to load “.45” in their schofields, they found that it was impossible to close. That killed S & W sales badly

[@les8518]

I agree with you. I love mine. Plus my 1851 Colts too.

[@e.kent.d9561]

I always enjoy you videos, but this one stands out. I have to settle for a Ruger Blackhawk for my single action cravings. One thing about the Smith and Wesson is it unloads a lot faster, but I don't have one to prove that.

[@mikehagan4320]

I've had a Ruger Super Blackhawk. I have walked at least 300 miles with it on my hip. That is just planned hikes. That doesn't count all of the Hunting trips, day Hikes and working outside. Though not the Colt revolver that we grew up watching in the movies. The Ruger is a Far Better Revolver. And mine has Many Memories Attached to it. Best Wishes from Montana! M.H.

[@e.kent.d9561]

@@mikehagan4320 Yeah, I agree. I wonder if getting the 45 colt ammo is very difficult, other than by reloading. I am not in a position to reload any more.

[@e.kent.d9561]

@@mikehagan4320 I meant .44 special. But getting the .45 ruger sounds good to me too.

[@richardelliott9511]

No one will argue that the S&W isn't faster but I will argue that on horseback the unsecured rounds in a S&W are subject to bouncing out while subsequent rounds are being loaded. In a Colt once a round is in and the cylinder turned for the next chamber, that round is IN. I have been told that is a minor point as most cavalry fought as mounted infantry (dragoons) and reloading would have been done on foot but I haven't been convinced yet. Lol

[@richardelliott9511]

@@e.kent.d9561 even in past days of full ammo shelves 44spl wasn't easy to find except at a well stocked gun shop or online. Certainly not at walmart.

[@Pro-Gunn1952]

Great History lesson on the Colt! I love your videos! This has to be one of your best!

[@gscop1683]

Great opinions and explanations. As A shooter, firearms instructor, and weapons enthusiast I will mention that in my experience the "bird's butt" stock might have been better for pocket and waistcoat concealment....It Never has given the ergonomic comfort and pointability of the traditional wide based wider grip of the Colt....thats why Colt was so comfortable. Thanks !

[@dennislloyd494]

Mike, in your learned quest for knowledge did you ever come across the reason the SA Army had no safety slot or recess for the firing pin between the chambers allowing one to carry the full 6 rounds safely vs the annoying empty chamber=5 rounds mode? It seemed such a simple normal thing with the percussion series.

[@ronalddunne3413]

fascinating dissertation! It's obvious that you love your subject and can spread that to others...

[@paulbaker5920]

Very interesting. I'd like to see your comparison of an original Colt SAA with one of the many clones now being produced. Also a comparison with the Ruger Vaquero would be nice.

[@lanedexter6303]

Great Video! 👍 Gotta love the feel of the SAA. I’d like to try the 1875 Remington one of these days.

[@superbug1977]

You and your channel are excellent. Thanks for these videos. They are treasures for both historians and shooting enthusiasts.

[@duelist1954]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@martinwall7297]

all true, the peacemaker is still produced today, there's a reason for it and tv is really just a part of it! as you pointed out. it was also known as a horse pistol to some degree, along with the colts walker's black powder model. when the military trains and issues a model firearm to soldiers, it is what they're familiar with, so when discharged it makes sense to use one along with product availability. look at the colt 1911 it too is still produced by many manufactures. as is the single action. or the s&w mod.10. then there's politics, that's another story. great review Mike, TKS.

[@james_lessick892]

Thank you for such a very informative video. My favorite hand gun by far is the Colt and you explain why. What a great shooter indeed. 👌🤠👍

[@comradeyars]

What a wonderfully informative video. Thanks, 'Professor'!

[@nicholassteel5529]

Fabulous info and conclusions.✌️👍

[@matthewfreyer9180]

Great video Mike, some excellent points. I’m curious how the Colt SAA compared in price to the others. I don’t think it was the least expensive, was it?

[@alanhope1190]

Great video, Mike! Keep them coming!