Colt Single Action Army 3rd Generation .44 Special Revolver, 7.5" Barrel, 1979 Production, Faux-Stag Grips
Produced in 1979, this 3rd Generation Colt Single Action Army pairs the classic 7.5-inch “Cavalry” barrel with the less common .44 Special chambering. A bone-charcoal color-case-hardened frame, blued cylinder, and aftermarket faux-stag grips give the revolver a period look while retaining Colt’s factory fit and finish. The SA-prefix serial confirms its early third-generation manufacture and the engineering updates that define this era.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent – sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Only minor handling marks are present; the factory finishes remain strong.
What’s Included
- Colt Single Action Army & New Frontier revolver owner’s manual (1978 printing)
- "The Colt Companion" pamphlet
- Colt red wood-grain factory cardboard box with matching end-label
Chambered in .44 Special, this revolver offers a cartridge choice sought after by enthusiasts looking for traditional Colt handling with a slightly larger bore than the ubiquitous .45 Colt. Colt produced far fewer 3rd Generation SAAs in .44 Special, making this example appreciably scarcer than most.
The 7.5-inch barrel follows the original Cavalry pattern, delivering a long sight radius and classic proportions. Fixed sights consist of an integral front blade and a top-strap notch rear—unchanged since the revolver’s 19th-century origins.
Third-generation engineering changes include the relocated serial marking on the frame and a redesigned cylinder bushing system, both intended to streamline production while maintaining Colt’s traditional lock-up and timing.
A factory bone-charcoal color-case-hardened frame contrasts with the deep blued barrel and cylinder, highlighting Colt’s signature finishes. The aftermarket faux-stag grips add a custom touch without altering the revolver’s dimensions or balance.