Colt 3rd Gen Single Action Army SAA 5 1/2” .45 Colt Revolver, MFD 1978
SOLD FOR: $2,575.00
LSB#: LSB250601SP035
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, 3rd Generation
Serial Number: 99073SA
Year of Manufacture: 1978 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2, 72 JAN. 19, 75”, along with the rampant Colt logo. The bottom of the frame is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 5 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch at the rear of a groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth ivory. There are no notable handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grip panels are real ivory, but aftermarket. The Colt medallions in the tops of the grip panels are not original to Colt. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
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 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little wear, with only a faint turn line on the cylinder. The case color is vivid, and in great shape. The screws are sharp, and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Lockup produces very little play side-to-side and minor end-shake on all six chambers. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this revolver, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This 3rd Generation Colt Single Action Army, chambered in the iconic .45 Colt and produced in 1978, offers collectors a near-pristine example of Colt’s enduring Western legacy. With its 5 1/2″ barrel, blued and case color finish, and traditional single-action operation, this revolver captures the quintessential form of the Peacemaker while benefiting from modern metallurgy and postwar manufacturing precision. It is one of the most collectible postwar Colt revolvers, and it holds strong appeal for both shooters and traditional SAA enthusiasts.
Condition-wise, the revolver is superb, retaining about 98% of its original finish. The case colors are vivid and the bluing is rich, with only the faintest turn line on the cylinder. Mechanically, it locks up tight with minimal side play and minor end-shake—exactly what one would expect from a revolver in this condition. The aftermarket grips are smooth ivory, enhancing the revolver’s visual appeal even if they are not factory original. The addition of Colt medallions, while attractive, may be misleading to an uninformed buyer, so the clarification here is welcome.
In sum, this SAA represents the best of both worlds: classic design, modern shootability, and aesthetic elegance. It’s ideal for a collector who wants a high-grade example of a post-war Peacemaker or a cowboy action shooter looking for a vintage revolver that needs no apologies. With its sharp mechanics, exceptional finish, and tasteful upgrades, this Colt is ready for either showcase or holster. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bid! – J.D.
