Colt 3rd Gen Single Action Army 4 3/4” .357 Magnum Revolver MFD 1981
SOLD FOR: $2,375.00
LSB#: LSB260124AK009
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, 3rd Generation
Serial Number: SA54951
Year of Manufacture: 1981 / Modern
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .357 MAGNUM”. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT.FA MFG CO. / HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871 . JULY. 72 JAN.19.75”. The bottom of the frame is marked “SA54951”. The left side of the upper and lower grip frame straps (under the left grip) are marked with the matching serial number.
Barrel Length: 4 3/4”
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 TK Grips smooth French Walnut panels. There are no handling grips. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition. This revolver comes with its original grips as well.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10. Appears unfired outside of factory testing.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little to no handling or operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. 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 with its original grip set as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army, often referred to as the “Peacemaker,” is one of the most iconic revolvers ever produced, originally introduced in 1873 and closely associated with the American frontier. The Third Generation models, produced beginning in 1976, continued this legacy with modern manufacturing while maintaining the classic design, dimensions, and operation of the original. By 1981, Colt had refined production of the Third Generation SAA, offering high quality finishes and strong fit while preserving the traditional side loading gate, fixed sights, and single action mechanism that define the platform. The 4 3/4 inch barrel configuration remains one of the most popular, offering a well balanced and quick handling revolver true to its historical roots.
Chambered in .357 Magnum, the powerful cartridge introduced in 1935 and widely regarded for its versatility and performance, this example retains approximately 99 percent of its original nickel finish with virtually no visible handling or operational wear. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating 10 out of 10. The revolver is fitted with TK French walnut grips in excellent condition and includes its original grip set as well. The action functions smoothly with a crisp trigger, maintaining the refined feel expected of a Colt SAA. With its excellent condition, desirable barrel length, and enduring Colt heritage, this 1981 Third Generation Single Action Army represents a classic American revolver in outstanding form. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – L.S.