Reproduction firearms are popular for a lot of reasons, not the least of which is having access to historical guns without the steep price tag. The Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty Model is nice revolver that’s a good example of an affordably priced gun made by a manufacturer to keep the guns of the past alive. Whether you’re a fan of single actions or not, the 1873 Single Action Liberty is a fun revolver, and you should probably consider getting one for yourself. Here’s why.
What’s the Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty?
The gun behind the Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty was the Colt Single Action Army (SAA). It was created back in 1872 for the handgun trials—yes, we’ve had a few of those—when the United States government decided it was time for a different standard issue service revolver. And as you might expect, Colt’s model won, making the Colt Single Action Army the new service gun—something that lasted until 1892.
Of course, there are quite a few variants of that original Colt Single Action Army. From barrel length to caliber, there were a lot of different guns made. Variants have included long-barreled models like the Peacemaker and Bisley, but of course there are others. It’s been chambered in 357 Magnum, 22 Long Rifle, and .38-40 WCF—to name only a few—and barrels lengths have varied 4 ¾ inches to 7 ½ inches. Whatever caliber and size you prefer, it probably exists, or at least did at some point in time.
That original revolver—serial number one—was chambered in 44 Smith & Wesson. Even so, it’s 45 Long Colt that became common and continues to be used today. In fact, by 1874, more than 12,000 Colt Single Action Army revolvers in 45 Long Colt had been issued to the United States Army. And, like those long-ago guns, the Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty is chambered in 45 Long Colt.
What are the details of the Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty?
The Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty is a single action revolver with a fixed cylinder. That means that the cylinder rotates as needed for cycling, but it doesn’t swing out for loading or unloading. Instead, the revolver has a loading gate located on the right-hand side of the cylinder. To load or unload the gun, the loading gate must be rotated outward to expose a chamber—yes, that means one at a time. Does this make it slower? Yes, but it’s a must for historical accuracy.
A 5.5-inch barrel provides decent length for the caliber and keeps the overall length manageable for carry (whether that’s cowboy action shooting or whatever else). White PVC grips are used on a hogleg style frame, which is the standard style for single action revolvers. The Liberty logo is engraved at the base of the grips. For aesthetic appeal the revolver has a blued finish and there’s also laser engraved scrollwork on the entire revolver. To facilitate smooth operation of the hammer, Traditions curved the topmost portion of the hammer is curved to fit the thumb. The trigger has a curved blade, as expected. This revolver’s trigger guard isn’t oversized—that’s a good thing since we’re going for accuracy—but it might present a challenge with gloves. A fixed blade front sight is standard as well.
Other features you probably want to know about include a transfer bar safety, steel frame, and six-round capacity. According to Traditions, the revolvers is an authentic reproduction made according to high standards for the greatest historical accuracy possible.
How does it shoot?
Over time I’ve put a variety of ammo through this gun. But for this specific write up, I used Hornady Critical Defense 45 Long Colt 185 grain FTX, Winchester USA Cowboy Ammunition 45 Long Colt 250 grain Lead Flat Nose, and Remington Performance Wheelgun Ammunition 45 Long Colt 250 grain Lead Round Nose. The gun cycled all ammunition reliably and experienced no failures of any kind (and never has).
If you’re not used to revolvers, it might take time getting used to the grip angle (it’s far different than what you get with semi-autos). The hogleg grip in the 1873 Single Action Liberty has a distinct, abrupt, curve. That’s because it was designed so the gun would recoil smoothly in the shooter’s hand, hopefully encouraging accuracy. This gun does fit well in my hands. It probably needs to be said that this is a gun you shoot with thumbs down—just saying, your thumbs forward won’t fly with a revolver (and if you’re laughing right now, just stop and remember there are lots of newbies out there).
From ten yards shooting offhand, five-shot groups averaged 1.5 inches regardless of ammo being used. At 25 yards, groups broadened to three inches with some loads doing better than others. The fixed blade front sight work well for staying on target and you can manage rapid target reacquisition with some practice. Felt recoil is minimal. Overall, it’s a smooth shooting gun.
Can you use it for self-defense?
You certainly use the Traditions gun for self-defense, but it isn’t exactly ideal. 45 Long Colt is capable, for sure, but that doesn’t mean it’s the round you want to make your top pick for defensive applications. It’s accurate and it’s been reliable, so those are certainly points in its favor. The shape and size make it less concealed carry friendly. So sure, you can use it for self-defense, but it might not be your best option.
Can you hunt with it?
Yes, this revolver can be used for hunting. The .45 Long Colt cartridge is a proven hunting round—provided you use the best ammo possible—so it’s just a matter of appropriately sized game at the correct distance. A revolver with a 5.5-inch barrel isn’t a great idea for longer shots, but it’s generally good within about 50 yards. Choose ammo made for the purpose and take the time to practice prior to taking your revolver on a hunt.
Should you get a Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty?
The Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty is a beautiful gun, and it’s one I’ve enjoyed. If you want a reproduction revolver that won’t drain your bank account, it’s a good option. It’s fun to shoot, comfortable during live fire, and reasonably accurate on target. Traditions also made it to be durable as well as aesthetically appealing. Yes, this is a basic reproduction rather than an elaborate one, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth having.
This gun is a great choice for target shooting and cowboy action. And, of course, it can also be used for closer-range hunting on animals like raccoons, feral hogs, and smaller deer with good shot placement. The Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty is a good place to start if you’re interest in SAAs and/or reproductions, and it’s a nice gun for experienced revolver shooters, too.