Colt 3rd Gen Single Action Army SAA 4 3/4” Blued .44 Special Revolver, 1979
SOLD FOR: $3,175
WOA#: WY240209TL010
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, 3rd Generation
Serial Number: SA23305
Year of Manufacture: 1979-1980
Caliber: .44 S&W Special
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .44 SPECIAL”, the top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2,72. JAN. 19,75” and with a rampant Colt logo. The underside of the frame at the grip frame is marked “SA23306”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with a “VP” in a triangle and “K” on the rear. The front face of the cylinder is marked “23306”. There are inspector marks on the rear-left face of the frame under the grip.
Barrel Length: 4.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter round blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece fancy checkered wood with Gold Colt Medallions at their tops. The grips have no notable wear or damage. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition. This revolver also comes with a set of two-piece checkered black, hard rubber grips with rampant colt in oval at their tops and American eagles below.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no turn wear. There are a few minor scuffs and tiny scratches. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Like New condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with almost no play on each of the chambers. The trigger is crisp. 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 comes in a faux-wood cardboard Colt box with two-piece styrofoam inserts and an assortment of factory paperwork which does not include the manual. The box has mild handling wear.
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army, with its iconic 4.75-inch barrel chambered in .44 Special, represents a significant chapter in the saga of American firearms. As a Generation 3 model, it epitomizes the enduring legacy of Colt’s craftsmanship, blending historical significance with modern gun-making precision. This revolver, known affectionately as the “Peacemaker,” has been synonymous with the American West since its inception, embodying the rugged individualism and adventurism of the frontier spirit.
The .44 Special caliber offers a balance of power and manageability, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate the nuances of shooting with historic cartridges. The 4.75-inch barrel length is historically significant, as it was favored by lawmen and outlaws alike for its ease of draw and balanced handling characteristics. The Gen 3 models of the Colt Single Action Army are particularly sought after by collectors and shooting enthusiasts for their adherence to the original specifications and quality, while also incorporating modern manufacturing techniques for improved reliability and accuracy.
Whether for the collector drawn to its rich history and aesthetic beauty or the shooter who values its performance and legacy, the Colt Single Action Army Gen 3 in .44 Special with a 4.75-inch barrel is a testament to Colt’s timeless design and the enduring appeal of the American West. It’s not just a firearm; it’s a piece of Americana, offering both a link to the past and a continued presence in the world of shooting sports and firearm collecting. This revolver has a consecutive serial SAA on auction as well which can be found here: https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1042689302. Please see our photos and good luck on your bidding! – L.S.
