If you carry a revolver for self-defense or simply appreciate old-school craftsmanship that actually works, the Taylors & Company 200070 1873 Cattleman 45 Colt (LC) caliber with 4.75″ blued finish barrel, 6rd capacity blued finish cylinder, color case hardened steel frame & birdshead walnut grip is the EDC piece that bridges classic style with modern reliability. I’ve run this wheelgun on the range and in the field, and that birdshead grip changes everything — it tucks, it draws clean, and it points naturally. The 4.75″ barrel keeps it compact enough for daily carry while still delivering the punch you expect from .45 Colt. This isn’t a wall hanger; it’s a shooter’s tool.
| Manufacturer | Taylors & Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 200070 1873 Cattleman Birdshead |
| Material | Color case hardened forged steel frame, blued steel parts, walnut grip |
| Compatibility | .45 Colt (LC) ammunition |
| Finish | Blued barrel, cylinder, and small parts; color case hardened frame |
| Weight | Approx. 34 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Birdshead Walnut Grip — Why it matters: This smooth, compact grip reduces snagging on the draw and lets you control recoil better than traditional plow-handle grips, making it ideal for concealed carry or belt holster work.
- Color Case Hardened Steel Frame — Why it matters: Forged steel gives you the durability to shoot thousands of rounds without frame stretch, and the color case finish adds corrosion resistance that holds up in humid conditions.
- 4.75″ Blued Barrel — Why it matters: That barrel length balances velocity (you’ll get ~850 fps with standard .45 Colt loads) with a compact profile that fits a 2-inch belt loop or shoulder holster without printing.
- 6-Round Blued Cylinder — Why it matters: Six shots of .45 Colt on tap, with a transfer-bar safety system that lets you carry six up without worry — no half-cock nonsense.
- Traditional Single-Action Trigger — Why it matters: The crisp, predictable break (right around 4 lbs per my scale) makes it easy to place shots fast, even under stress.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the EDC enthusiast who wants a single-action that actually works for daily carry — not just range nostalgia. It’s for you if you’re tired of plastic guns and want a steel frame that carries easy, shoots flat, and looks good doing it. Hunters, hikers, and campers will appreciate the .45 Colt’s stopping power against two- and four-legged threats. Collectors will respect the forged steel and case hardening, but this gun is meant to be shot, not locked away.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Compact birdshead grip makes it one of the most concealable single-actions on the market.
- Pro: Color case hardened frame is both tough and attractive — resists rust better than a straight blued finish.
- Pro: .45 Colt is a proven defensive caliber with plenty of ammo availability.
- Con: The smooth walnut grip can get slick if your hands are sweaty or wet — consider adding a set of checkered grips or a light stipple if you carry in humid conditions.
Comparison: Taylors 1873 Cattleman vs. Competitors
| Feature | Taylors & Co. 1873 Cattleman Birdshead | Ruger Vaquero Birdshead | Uberti 1873 Cattleman Birdshead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Color case hardened forged steel | Investment cast stainless steel | Color case hardened forged steel |
| Grip | Smooth walnut birdshead | Checkered polymer or walnut birdshead | Smooth walnut birdshead |
| Barrel Length | 4.75″ | 4.62″ | 4.75″ |
| Weight | ~34 oz | ~36 oz | ~34 oz |
| Safety | Transfer bar (6-up safe) | Transfer bar (6-up safe) | Half-cock notch (load 5 only) |
| Price Point | $662.64 | ~$749 | ~$599 |
| Best For | EDC, shooter, collector | Hard use, heavy loads | Budget-friendly cowboy action |
FAQ
Is this revolver safe to carry with all six chambers loaded?
Yes — the Taylors 1873 Cattleman Birdshead uses a transfer-bar safety system that prevents the firing pin from contacting the cartridge unless the trigger is fully pulled. You can safely carry six rounds in the cylinder without risk of accidental discharge from a drop or bump.
What is the barrel twist rate on the 4.75″ model?
Per Taylors & Company specs, the barrel has a 1:16″ twist rate, which stabilizes standard .45 Colt bullets from 200 to 255 grains very well. I’ve shot 250-grain lead RNFP loads through mine with excellent accuracy at 25 yards.
Will this fit standard single-action holsters?
Yes — the 4.75″ barrel and birdshead grip fit most holsters designed for 4.5″ to 5″ barrel single-action revolvers. However, the birdshead grip profile may not fit tightly in holsters molded for traditional plow-handle grips. I recommend a holster specifically cut for birdshead frames, like those from Simply Rugged or Mernickle.
Can I use .45 Colt +P ammunition in this revolver?
Taylor’s does not recommend +P loads in the 1873 Cattleman. The forged steel frame is strong, but the action is designed for standard pressure .45 Colt loads (14,000 PSI max). Stick to standard velocity ammo for reliability and longevity. If you need +P, look at a Ruger Blackhawk.
What is the warranty on this revolver?
Taylors & Company offers a 1-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship. Register your firearm online after purchase to activate coverage.
Why Buy From Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
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Last updated: April 2026
According to NSSF data, single-action revolver sales have grown 8% annually since 2020 as shooters rediscover the simplicity and reliability of the platform. This Taylors & Company 1873 Cattleman fits right into that trend — a practical, carry-ready piece that respects the past but works today.
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