rWt
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Post by rWt on Sept 28, 2012 12:36:25 GMT -5
For 20+ years now, I have wanted a 2nd generation Colt SAA in 45 Colt. For years I have been put off by stories of over-sized throats and poor shooting qualities. And, every time I looked at one I thought it was too expensive-dumb me-I should have bought a bushel of them 20 years ago.
So, now I want to find one with a 4 3/4" barrel.
Any advice on how to find a good, honest gun in shooter condition?-I don't mind bluing wear since I plan to add more. Plus, I don't want to pay mint prices.
Any thing to look out for? Any particular date or serial number range that's preferable?
Thanks!
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Post by zeus on Sept 28, 2012 14:24:20 GMT -5
There are guys on here that will be able to help a lot more than me but the 4 3/4" 2nd gen was on my radar for a long time. Just never ran across one. I bet that if you google it right now, you will be hard pressed to find one to be honest. I found a lot in the 5.5" barrel persuasion and if you are not in it for collectability, I guess you could take one of those and make a 4 3/4" version from it with the help of someone like Alan Harton. Heck, he may have extra barrel on hand even. From what I can tell, the 4 3/4" 45 is the toughest one to find and obviously one of the most sought after as far as barrel length goes. I've seen in articles before that the last couple years of production had some issues as far as QC goes so check it over good before you buy. I think it was mostly oversize throats or something along those lines, nothing too major from what I'm told. I did see a couple of 4 3/4" guns for sale not long ago. one had a box and you do not want to pay what it went for on gunbroker I imagine. That one ended last weeked or the one before for $4905. The other, I forgot to follow to the end to see what happened. I've seen several on gunsamerica and such also. The other option would be a USFA if you aren't stuck on a Colt but even that, you may want to jump on quick. i talked with them a couple weeks back and they are not taking any new orders right now and are looking at a 2 year wait. Having said that, I recieved one recently from a fellow forum member and I love it. Its technically my son's but I'm gonna shoot it a few times anyway. He goes through JT's books all the time and picks out his favorites. The one constant I started to notice is that 90% of the time, his favorite was a variation of a short barreled Colt SAA. So, it only seemed right that it would be the type of his next sixgun. What can I say, my 5 year old has better taste than me So, they are out there. His new gun is in the middle of the serial number range being built in the late 60s and the quality is amazing. If you hold your mouth just right, a .455" pin gauge will pass but it has to be perfect to make it work and the timing/fit is just astounding. I was very pleased and I think he will be also. I tell you that to say that I'm glad I finally got one and if you find one in good shape and have the money, grab it. They aren't making anymore 2nd gen models and they aren't going to get cheaper I imagine Here is a pic of the little guy not too long ago ready for bed doing exactly what I described
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Post by jamesjames on Sept 28, 2012 14:34:39 GMT -5
Sorry, but unless you run across one in a pawnshop or estate sale where they don't know what they have, you will pay a premium.
They show up on gunbroker and other sites often. but they are pricey.
3rd gen Colts are now much better than they were 10 years ago, and, I wouldn't hesitate to buy one.
USFAs are almost all gone, but you might be able to get one online. They are worth every penny.
I place a great deal of value on the traditional SAA and would happily buy a 2nd gen if I had a couple thousand dollars to spend. Buy one, enjoy it. Shoot it. Fondle it. Its a piece of history in your hand.
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Post by weagle99 on Sept 28, 2012 14:41:49 GMT -5
gunbroker.com auctionarms.com gunsamerica.com gunsinternational.com
Keep an eye on the websites. A 4 3/4" gun will normally command a premium regardless of generation.
I like the black box era 2nd gen guns (mid 1950's - early 1960's) mainly for the quality and unique features. Guns from that time will normally be more expensive than later 2nd Gens.
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Post by tas6691 on Sept 28, 2012 15:28:01 GMT -5
I like current production Colt SAA's. Fit and finish are awesome, case colors are much improved from 2nd and early 3rd gen's IMO.
Zeus- Love the holster in your pick. Is that a Barranti?
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Post by Tom Richardson on Sept 28, 2012 15:36:18 GMT -5
Early 2nt generation Colt. Started life as a .38 until Sheriff Jim Wilson had it converted to a .45 Colt. US Firearms .45 Colt. Have never put a pin gauge in cylinders. Both revolvers shoot well.
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Post by zeus on Sept 28, 2012 15:38:14 GMT -5
I like current production Colt SAA's. Fit and finish are awesome, case colors are much improved from 2nd and early 3rd gen's IMO. Zeus- Love the holster in your pick. Is that a Barranti? Shot you a PM as to not derail his thread here
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rWt
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Post by rWt on Sept 28, 2012 18:23:38 GMT -5
Thanks everyone!
Great photos!
I have a USFA Rodeo, which I enjoy the heck out of shooting.
But, it doesn't scratch my itch for the Colt.
If any one sees one-please point me to it.
Thanks again.
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edk
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Post by edk on Sept 29, 2012 21:24:11 GMT -5
I have a USFA Rodeo, which I enjoy the heck out of shooting. But, it doesn't scratch my itch for the Colt. Is it the name? If so I understand but I have to say my inexpensive Rodeo is better made than the only Colt I ever owned (and it was a 2nd gen). Colt throats were an easy .455", there was no comparison in lockup - the Rodeo is rock solid. Amazing for the short money I paid it is as tight as a FA. A local shop has had clean USFAs passing through lately that do not reflect the recent pricing spike and try as I might I can't buy them all
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rWt
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Post by rWt on Sept 30, 2012 11:39:42 GMT -5
"Is it the name? "
In part. I'm a Viet Nam vet with cancer from agent orange. While I am currently doing fine, I have been drawn to purchase a few items that for one reason or another, I chose not to at the time. I can't quite explain why I want to scratch the itch now. I'm 65, not 45, and time does make a difference.
I'm also looking for an early series 70 Colt Combat Commander. New ones are far better than the troubled 70's, but they are new and not worn and traveled as I am.
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cubrock
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Post by cubrock on Oct 1, 2012 10:31:15 GMT -5
The only answer to your query is search, search, search. Auction sites. Collector sites. Gun shops. Gun shows. You have your work cut out for you.
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rWt
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Post by rWt on Oct 1, 2012 12:14:03 GMT -5
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cubrock
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Post by cubrock on Oct 1, 2012 12:38:42 GMT -5
It is certainly full retail, but you won't find one much cheaper without getting really lucky. If it makes you happy, I'd say go for it. It has a pleasing "using gun" look.
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Post by Boge Quinn on Oct 1, 2012 12:48:06 GMT -5
As Jeff often says to me, "You can't pay too much - just too SOON."
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turbo
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Post by turbo on Oct 1, 2012 13:28:56 GMT -5
Early 2nt generation Colt. Started life as a .38 until Sheriff Jim Wilson had it converted to a .45 Colt. Just wondering what that conversion would cost today?? Any guess?
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