4 Best Single Action Revolvers: Unholstering the Legends

Howdy, shooters, and collectors! Let’s talk about a true classic in the gun world: single-action revolvers.

Now, these aren’t just any guns. They’re time machines that transport us back to the dusty trails and showdowns of the American West. But hey, they’re not just for show. These revolvers have practical uses that extend beyond their historical charm, making them a hit with collectors and shooting enthusiasts alike.

At the top of our list is the Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker Revolver. This isn’t just a gun; it’s a piece of Americana, embodying the spirit of the Old West like no other. For those who get a kick out of historical authenticity mixed with a bit of modern flair, the Uberti 1873 Cattleman II Revolver is a sure shot. It’s a tasteful nod to the past without compromising on today’s safety standards.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more punch, the Ruger New Model Super Blackhawk packs a wallop with its .44 Magnum cartridge, perfect for hunters or long-range shooters. And for those who appreciate the Old West style with modern reliability, the Ruger Vaquero is a standout choice, offering various calibers and finishes.

Having spent considerable time with these models, I’m excited to share more about what sets each of these revolvers apart. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the world of single-action revolvers – where history meets modern shooting.

I sifted through dozens of options, and here are the four models that I think are the best available today.

Image	Product	Price
	Best For Historical Significance – Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker Revolver	Check Price
	Best for Authentic Reproduction – Uberti 1873 Cattleman II	Check Price
	Best for Power and Durability – Ruger Blackhawk	Check Price
	Best for Modern Cowboy Action Shooting – Ruger Vaquero	Check Price

Best For Historical Significance – Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker Revolver

Features and Specs

• Caliber − .357 Magnum
• Barrel length – 4.75”
• Case hardened and blue finish
• Composite grips
• Fixed sights
• Weight – 40 oz. 
• Spur hammer
• 2nd generation cylinder bushing

The Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker is one of those guns that stands the test of time. Consecutively made for a better part of the late 19th and early 20th century, it disappeared for a few years. This caused an uproar, and eventually, Colt reintroduced it. However, in today’s modern era, they are very difficult to find new.

Looking like something John Wayne would have drawn to chase away those bank robbers, it has a beautiful aesthetic. But beauty is definitely more than skin deep. The action quality, along with its easy-to-pull trigger and accuracy, makes it easy for me to include on this run down.

The gun is easy to repair and maintain. Its quick firing and accuracy make this perhaps the perfect model for target shooting or even trick shooting. On top of all that, it is comfortable to shoot because of how the grip is built. It lines up perfectly with the wrist, which helps with accuracy as well.

There are, of course, a few issues that I didn’t really like. Most of the negative aspects were surrounding the hammer. Not only me, but several other users felt that the hammer was a little less attractive than the rest of the gun, and many of them have sharp edges.

Best for Authentic Reproduction – Uberti 1873 Cattleman II

Features and Specs

• Caliber − .375 Magnum
• Barrel length – 4.75”
• Walnut grip
• Hardened case frame
• Weight – 2.5 lbs.

I knew I wanted to include a more budget-friendly option that delivered all the accuracy and performance of the other three single-action revolvers. Enter the Uberti 1973 Cattleman II.

This gun is crafted with durable bits and pieces and packs quite the punch. For me, this is one of those selections that deliver a lot of value. Not only is it built to last, but it is accurate at a wide range of distances. The revolver is powerful enough to deal with any animal pests that may be giving you trouble. 

The Cattleman II has a lot of power and sturdiness all for a very reasonable price tag. This makes it great for new gun owners or those working with little money who want to make sure they can protect what is theirs.

Don’t let the affordability fool you! This gun from Uberti is a classic-looking revolver that offers power and accuracy, and that is what you should be looking for. The fact that there was nothing I could find wrong with the gun was shocking.

However, this is why it was included on this list. 

Best for Power and Durability – Ruger Blackhawk

Features and Specs

• Crafted with a solid frame
• Sights are adjustable
• Designed with molded rubber grips
• Caliber − .44 Magnum
• Barrel length – 7.5”
• Total length – 13.38” (stainless steel) or 13.63” (satin stainless steel)
• Weight – 48 oz. or 52 oz.

Ruger is a name synonymous with quality guns. With the Blackhawk, Ruger has lived up to its reputation. The Blackhawk loads quickly and shoots with a tight cluster. However, for me, the design is what really makes this revolver shine. 

Crafted with materials that are high grade means that it can withstand a lot of firepower. Even with superior materials, it still manages to be lightweight, which is why this is a great choice for target shooting or even concealed carry.

In my opinion, the gun owner who will get the most from this choice is the individual looking for a reliable and user-friendly way to protect themselves and their most precious possessions. 

There are a few issues that I would be remiss without mentioning, though. It may be a little loud for some and has a bit of a recoil, which can be a problem for some. There is also a significant muzzle flash. This may make it a poor choice for new shooters or slighter-framed individuals.

Best for Modern Cowboy Action Shooting – Ruger Vaquero

Features and Specs

• Available in multiple calibers (.45 Colt and .357 Magnum)
• Three models – Stainless 5104, stainless 5109, and blued 5101)
• Barrel length – 4.62” or 5.5”
• Total length – 10.25” or 11.12”
• Weight – 40 – 43 oz.
• Crafted with a hardwood grip

Like I said above, Ruger is one of those names, even if you are a novice gun owner, I am sure you are familiar with. The Vaquero is a classic-looking gun that brings with it a high level of accuracy. 

Straight from the box, this gun can shoot tight grouping up to 30 or 40 yards. Plus, cycling is smooth, which is quite a bonus. To me, this revolver impressed me in several ways. 

Not only does it look like an Old West replica, but it is made with premium-grade materials for improved durability. On top of that, it is simple to use and accurate. For me, all of these features add up to create a revolver that is best used for either target shooting or home defense. 

Most of the things that I didn’t like about this gun are really all preferences. The grips are a little less grippy than I would like. If you want a grip with a good tactile feel, you may want to look into replacing the stock grips. The cylinder is also difficult to remove, which may make maintenance and cleaning a little more challenging.

A single-action revolver is your classic “cowboy gun.” What makes it single action? Simple – you have to cock the hammer manually for each shot.

This is the gun that harkens back to the Wild West, where quick draws and precision were king.

Key Features of a Single Action Revolver

• Manual Hammer Cocking: Before each shot, you’ve got to pull back the hammer. It’s all about that tactile, mechanical feel which, let’s be honest, has a certain cool factor.
• Trigger Function: The trigger in a single-action revolver only releases the hammer. Since you’re doing the cocking manually, the trigger has one job, and it does it well – making for a crisp and light pull.
• Loading and Unloading: Typically, these revolvers have a loading gate on the side. You rotate the cylinder, load one chamber at a time, and eject spent cases using an ejector rod. It’s not fast, but it’s got a rhythm that modern firearms can’t match.

Why Choose a Single Action Revolver?

You might be thinking, “Brady, why would I go for a single action when there are faster, more modern options out there?”

Well, my friend, it’s about the experience. Shooting a single-action revolver is like driving a classic car – it’s about the journey, not just the destination.

The deliberate action of cocking the hammer, the precision needed for each shot, it’s a shooter’s delight. Plus, the design lends itself to outstanding balance and ergonomics, making these revolvers a joy to handle.

The story of single action revolvers begins in the mid-19th century. The concept was simple yet revolutionary: a handgun where the hammer had to be manually cocked before each shot.

This design was a game-changer in an era when most handguns were either single-shot or cumbersome to operate.

One of the earliest and most notable examples was the Colt Model 1836, patented by Samuel Colt in 1836. Colt’s innovation wasn’t just in the mechanics of the gun, but also in the use of interchangeable parts, which was groundbreaking at the time.

This paved the way for mass production and standardization, crucial in the years leading up to the Civil War.

Evolution Through Necessity

The evolution of single-action revolvers was driven by necessity. As America expanded westward, the demand for reliable and robust firearms grew.

The Colt Single Action Army, also known as the Peacemaker, was introduced in 1873 and quickly became the quintessential revolver of the American West. It was favored by lawmen and outlaws alike for its reliability and ease of use.

The Peacemaker and its contemporaries were more than just tools for survival and defense. They became symbols of justice (or sometimes injustice) in the untamed territories of the West. Their presence in historical events, like the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, cemented their place in American history and mythology.

A Legacy That Endures

Today, single action revolvers hold a special place in the hearts of firearms enthusiasts. They represent a blend of craftsmanship, reliability, and a rugged individualism that defined an era. While modern firearms have surpassed them in technology, the single action revolver remains a favorite for its historical significance, mechanical simplicity, and the undeniable charisma it holds.

In the next section, we’ll help you figure out the best way to choose a single action revolver.

Now that you have an idea of what you are looking at, trust me − I didn’t know anything either − you can start getting down to the details of each option.

When I was looking for the best choices for a single-action revolver for this guide, there were some features that I used to narrow the field down. Here are those features:

Caliber

The first place to start is always with the type of product you want and with a single action revolver that starts with the caliber. There are many different options.

• .22 – This is the smallest caliber you can have and is great for new shooters. They tend to have a tight shooting pattern and are perfect for concealed carrying as well as target shooting
• .38 – This option is close to the 9mm, and if you have a little experience with this caliber, then opting for a .38 caliber single action is a good idea. These types of revolvers are used a lot by security and law enforcement and are well-suited for concealed carrying as well as home defense
• .357 – This was the largest caliber available for quite a while. This caliber gives the biggest bang for your buck and can be used effectively for home defense
• .44 – This caliber has made a comeback with a revival of cowboy action shooting. It is also a great choice for target shooting

Budget

As with everything else in this world, price tends to cling to quality, which may lead to a hefty price tag. So, understanding the budget you are working with is also an important factor to consider.

Some single-action revolvers can get a little pricey, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from investing in one. I would suggest picking the features that you absolutely need and those you can live without and then finding the best option for you and your budgetary restrictions. 

Materials

If you are going to spend a little more on your firearm, you will need to consider the material it is constructed and finished with. High-quality materials when it comes to revolvers are steel, aluminum, and even polymer. 

Most of the options we will look at below are crafted in some sort of steel. This means that if taken care of properly, you will be able to have this revolver to use for much longer.

Reliability

Obviously, you want your revolver to be on point and ready to be used at the drop of a hat. That means the last major factor to consider is the reliability of the firearm. 

Reliability in regard to guns comes down to cycling. When firing, this process should be smooth. This will ensure that there is no chance of jamming. (One tip: In order to keep your cycling smooth, make sure to clean and maintain your revolver religiously.)

Are you looking for a gun for home defense? Target shooting? Or are you considering getting into competitive cowboy trick shooting? These are all viable choices dependent on the single-action revolver you choose.

Target Shooting

Single-action revolvers are great choices for the range. Most models are fairly accurate and have short- to medium-distance capabilities.

Home Defense

Protecting those that you love and your priceless possessions is another great use of the single-action revolver. They are easy to load and quick to shoot, which makes them very effective.

Concealed Carry

There are several states where gun owners can get a concealed carry license. Depending on the state and the qualification, this is one option that a single-action revolver is perfect for. Most of these revolvers are small and can be easily hidden.

In our journey to find the best single action revolvers, we’ve looked at some truly remarkable models. While our top picks, like the Colt Peacemaker and the Ruger Vaquero, stood out, it’s worth mentioning other brands like Smith & Wesson and Freedom Arms, which also offer commendable options.

These brands didn’t make our top list primarily due to their focus on different aspects of revolver design or price points that didn’t align with our criteria.

Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses, and it’s important to acknowledge this. For example, while Smith & Wesson revolvers are renowned for their craftsmanship, they often come with a heftier price tag, which might not suit everyone’s budget. Freedom Arms revolvers, known for their precision and quality, might be overkill for casual shooters or those new to single action revolvers.

The Colt Single Action Army Peacemaker Revolver and the Uberti 1873 Cattleman II stand out for their historical significance and authentic reproduction, respectively.

The Ruger Blackhawk and Vaquero, on the other hand, offer modern shooting experiences with a nod to the past.

Each of these revolvers brings something unique to the table: the Peacemaker’s balance and classic design, the Uberti’s affordability and reliability, the Blackhawk’s power and durability, and the Vaquero’s versatility and style.

When considering value and practicality, the Uberti 1873 Cattleman II really hits the mark. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance or quality. For shooters looking for a mix of historical charm and modern reliability without breaking the bank, it’s hard to beat.

Single-action revolvers aren’t just about firing rounds; they’re about the experience, the history, and the feel of a bygone era. Our top picks reflect the best of these qualities, offering something for history buffs, collectors, and practical shooters alike.

Whether you’re plinking at the range, engaging in cowboy action shooting, or simply admiring the craftsmanship of these fine firearms, there’s a revolver here for you.

Remember, the best firearm is one that suits your needs, fits your budget, and, most importantly, is handled safely and responsibly. Happy shooting!