Colt Single Action Army 3rd Gen SAA .45 Colt. 4 3/4″ Revolver, 1990

SOLD FOR: $2,526.00

LSB#: LSB251006JW005

Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army, 3rd Generation

Serial Number: SA90194

Year of Manufacture: 1990 / Modern 

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”, the left is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. The left of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2, 72 JAN. 19, 75” and with a rampant colt logo. The left of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle at the front. The bottom of the frame and the left of each portion of the trigger guard are each marked “SA90194”. There is a partial matching serial number on the face of the cylinder of “194”.

Barrel Length: 4 3/4″

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter-round 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: This revolver is constructed on a black powder frame with a “bullseye” ejector head. The grips are a set of two-piece walnut with rampant colt medallions.  There are only minimal handling wear on the grips. There is good detail in the Colt medallions. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Hardened

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 9.5/10. 

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are no noticeable dings or marks on the finish. There are a few minor scratches on the bottom of the grip frame. There are no carbon rings on the cylinder.  There is no turn line on the cylinder.  The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. Lockup produces very little play.  The trigger has a light pull of about 2.4lbs. The Hammer spring is tight and 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 a Colt Factory blue felt-lined box and paperwork.

Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army Third Generation represents Colt’s continued stewardship of its most iconic revolver into the modern era, preserving traditional design while benefiting from contemporary production consistency. By 1990, Third Generation SAAs were being produced in comparatively limited numbers, and examples from this period are increasingly appreciated for their fit, finish, and faithful adherence to classic Single Action Army proportions. These revolvers retain the visual and mechanical character that made the SAA legendary, while offering the reliability and uniformity expected of modern Colt manufacture.

This 1990 example is chambered in the classic .45 Colt and fitted with the highly desirable 4 3/4 inch barrel, a configuration long favored for its balance and fast handling. Finished in factory blue and case hardening, the revolver presents in excellent overall condition. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 9.5 out of 10. Approximately 97 percent of the original finish remains, with vivid case colors, no carbon rings on the cylinder, and no visible cylinder turn line. Only a few minor scratches are noted on the underside of the grip frame, while all markings remain crisp and well defined and the screw heads are sharp.

The revolver is fitted with two-piece walnut grips featuring Rampant Colt medallions, showing only minimal handling wear and retaining strong detail with no chips or cracks. Mechanically, the action functions correctly with tight lockup, a light trigger pull measuring approximately 2.4 pounds, and a crisp hammer and trigger feel. Accompanied by its Colt factory blue felt-lined box and paperwork, this Single Action Army stands as a clean, well-preserved Third Generation example that combines a desirable configuration, strong originality, and excellent condition, making it a fine addition to any Colt or Single Action Army collection. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!

BF