What's the best barrel length in a Colt SAA?

[aterry33]

I'm tempted to get the 7 1/2" barrel because that's the original cavalry length. Any thoughts on why a shorter barrel might be better? I don't plan on carrying it. I'd get it in 45 LC.

 

[Evil One]

Why was this asked in the carry forum?


Jim

 

[aterry33]

Where else could I ask it, Jim? I have found that the carry forum is where people ask about guns other than S&W.

Assume I will be carrying the SAA...

 

[Evil One]

Nah, just razzing ya.
"I" would have asked in the lounge... a LOT more traffic.
For me, and I carry every pistol I buy, 5" or under.
Personal opinion only, once a barrel gets past 6-6.5"... it just looks strange to me... and starts going muzzle heavy.


Jim

 

[LoboGunLeather]

The Colt Single Action Army is nothing less than a true pleasure to shoot. Excellent natural pointing characteristics, very well balanced, feels good in the hand.

For shooting, I like the 7.5" barrel. Makes it very easy to hit what you are aiming at. But carrying the 7.5" can be a chore. My field holster is a modified Threepersons-style cross-draw.

The 5.5" or 4.75" are a lot easier to carry and don't give away much in the accuracy department. Not much difference between the two in my opinion.

To shoot very much with .45 Long Colt you are going to have to get into reloading for it. Expensive cartridges to buy, when you can even find them. I load a 250-grain SWC to duplicate factory load ballistics, and it shoots dead on at point of aim at 25 yards in my second generation SAA. Other bullet weights and velocities can be "iffy" in a fixed-sight SAA.

Have fun!

 

[jimmyj]

Hi:
For "Carrying"- 4 3/4"
For "Pistol Whipping"- 7 1/2"
For "Shooting"- 5 1/2"

 

[aterry33]

Out of curiousity, were the 5 1/2" and 4 3/4" widely used in the old west, and by whom? I seem to remember that one was preferred more by civilians and gunfighters.

Thanks.

 

[safearm]

I've had single actions most of my adult life, and without any hesitation, the best length for me is 4 3/4 inches. I currently have two Colt SAA, both 4 3/4, and two Charles Daly clones, also with 4 3/4 inches, that I use for Cowboy Mounted Shooting. I think the 4 3/4 inch guns are the best balanced of all of the single actions, and while I've had Bisleys, I still prefer the original grip.

 

[BarbC]

Moved.


.

 

[feralmerril]

I have all barrel lengths. I like 4 3/4". They were first built in 7 1/2" for the cavary. A year or two later, 4 3/4" for civilians. About the same time the army refit 7 1/2"s to 5 1/2" for artillery. Same time colt started building all lengths.

 

[ladder13]

A vote for 4 3/4

 

[Raider]

My single actions are 4 3/4" because they handy for holster carry and balance the best for me. They just look graceful too.

Charlie

 

[keith44spl]

SAAs

This 'n here started life as a 7 1/2" blued C/C. Re-barreled her with a handier 4 3/4" length...She gets her share of holster and shootin' time.

Su Amigo,
Dave

 

[Raider]

Dave, beautiful single action.

Charlie

 

[Xfuzz]

Make the first one a 4 3/4 you won't be sorry.

 

[jag312]

Although I am partial to 4 3/4" and .44 Special, I believe you need to get one of each barrel length in an assortment of calibers. Seriously, SAA become very addicting. Your first will not be your last. If you have the disposible income, think about getting ivory grips. Look at Colts and look at US Firearms. Feel how the different barrel lengths balance in your hand. I'm sure you'll find one that feels just right for you.

Mine is a US Firearms.

 

[Steave]

I don't have a SAA, so take this for what it's worth, but I've always liked the 4 3/4.

 

[Mickey D]

Moved.


.

I found I was moved also.

 

[michael thornton]

43/4 what else did they make?

 

[therevjay]

I think the 4 3/4" has the best balance. The 7 1/2" is most accurate. Personal choice? The 5 1/2" a good compromise balance wise , and the best looking of the three.