Whether you’re a fan of revolvers in general or simply enjoy having a representation of gun history around, you’ve probably taken a look at reproduction revolvers. If you’ve looked, you might know Traditions is well known for its historical reproduction firearms. The Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty Model is a fantastic example of the gun maker’s work in keeping the guns of the past alive, and we reviewed it. Here’s what we found out about the 1873 Single-Action Liberty and why we think it’s worth a closer look — revolver lover or not.
What is the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty?
To explain the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty, we really need to check out the gun it all started with: the Colt Single-Action Army. That original gun was designed in 1872 as part of handgun trials when the United States government was trying to choose a new service revolver. Unsurprisingly, Colt’s model won, and the Colt Single-Action Army became the new standard-issue revolver until 1892.
It’s worth mentioning that the Colt Single-Action Army, specifically, has a lot of variants. Everything varies from barrel length to dozens of different chamberings. The original gun — as in serial number one — was chambered in .44 Smith & Wesson. But by 1874, more than 12,000 Colt Single-Action Army revolvers chambered in .45 Long Colt had been issued to service members in the United States Army. Like the guns issued to the army, the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty is chambered in .45 Long Colt.
This is a gun that’s synonymous with the Wild West. Variants have included the long-barreled version, which was referred to as the Peacemaker and the Bisley. It’s been chambered in everything from .357 Magnum to .22 LR to .38-40 WCF and barrel lengths have ranged from 4.75 inches to 7.5 inches. Variations are practically endless, which is one of the great things about this gun. Whatever caliber and size you prefer, it probably exists.
What are the specifications of the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty?
The Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty is, as its name suggests, a single-action revolver. It has a fixed cylinder, meaning that although the cylinder rotates as needed for functionality, it doesn’t swing out away from the frame. Instead, the revolver has a loading gate on the right-hand side of the cylinder that must be swung down to expose a chamber for loading or unloading. This does make the loading process slower.
This revolver has a 5.5-inch barrel. The white PVC grips are in what is often called the hogleg style, which is standard for single-action revolvers. The Liberty logo is engraved at the base of the grips. A blued finish gives the gun a nice aesthetic appeal and laser-engraved scrollwork is featured over the entire revolver. The topmost portion of the hammer is curved to fit the shooter’s thumb for easier operation and the trigger has a curved blade. This revolver’s trigger guard isn’t oversized in any way, so while the shooter can fit their finger easily it might become a challenge with gloves. A fixed blade front sight comes standard.
Other features of the revolver include a transfer bar safety system, a steel frame, and a six-round capacity. Traditions claims the 1873 revolver is an authentic reproduction, made according to high standards.
How does the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Liberty shoot?
For this review, the following ammunition was used: Hornady Critical Defense .45 Long Colt 185-grain FTX, Winchester USA Cowboy Ammunition .45 Long Colt 250-grain Lead Flat Nose, and Remington Performance Wheelgun Ammunition .45 Long Colt 250-grain Lead Round Nose. Unsurprisingly, the revolver cycled all ammunition reliably.
If you’re not used to revolvers, it’s probably going to take some time to get used to the feel of the grips in your hands. Unlike your usual semi-auto, the hogleg grip in the 1873 Single-Action Liberty has a distinct, sharp, smooth curve. This is because it was originally designed to allow the gun to recoil smoothly in the shooter’s hand, facilitating a good grip during live fire. This gun fits well in my hands and, of course, this is a gun you shoot with thumbs down. You could certainly shoot it offhand with an Isosceles stance, but for me, Modified Chapman is better.
Shooting offhand at ten yards, the gun produced groups averaging 1.5 inches. Stretching that out to 25 yards broadened those groups to around three inches depending on the specific ammunition. The fixed blade front sight works just fine for staying on target and rapid target reacquisition is definitely possible with practice. Felt recoil is minimal even with the heavier loads, although you might have to get used to the different feel of that recoil. Revolvers simply shoot differently than semi-autos and when you cross over at random, it can be a surprise. Take it easy, take your time, and enjoy yourself.
Can you use the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Army for self-defense?
You certainly could use this gun for self-defense. .45 Long Colt is more than capable. Just take care to ensure your chosen ammunition is appropriate for defensive applications. This gun is accurate, although not precise, and its shape and size make it unlikely you’d want to use it for concealed carry. It isn’t an ideal self-defense revolver, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Can you use the Traditions 1873 Single-Action Army for hunting?
This revolver could be used for hunting. The .45 Long Colt has long been seen as a capable hunting round, so what you’re limited to with a revolver is a close-range shot. A revolver with a 5.5-inch barrel isn’t good for long shots while hunting, but it’s reliable within about 50 yards. Use the correct rounds for hunting, and take time to practice before taking your revolver on a hunt.
Should you get a Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty?
The Traditions 1873 Single Action Liberty is a great option when it comes time to add a reproduction revolver to your collection. It’s fun to shoot, comfortable in the hand, and relatively accurate on target. The gun outperforms its price point for durability and accuracy, and that alone is enough to recommend it. Yes, it is a more basic reproduction than some, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t well-made (it is). Thanks to the cost of this revolver it’s far easier to afford than many other reproductions.
This is a great revolver for target shooting and cowboy action. It can also be used for closer-range hunting on animals like raccoons, feral hogs, and smaller deer with proper shot placement. If you want a gun that’s just flat-out enjoyable to shoot and you’d like to learn more about different revolvers, this is the gun for you.
