The Turner Fabrications Traditions 1873 .45 LC 5.50in Nickel 6rd is a faithful single-action reproduction that bridges Old West authenticity with modern safety. It’s built for the urban shooter who values reliability and classic lines—without sacrificing the transfer bar safety system that prevents accidental discharge if dropped. In a world of polymer striker-fired guns, this nickel-finished six-shooter stands apart as a reliable, conversation-starting piece for your collection or range time.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Turner Fabrications (imported by Traditions) |
| Model | 1873 Single Action Army |
| Material | Steel frame, nickel finish, PVC grips |
| Compatibility | .45 Long Colt ammunition |
| Finish | Nickel-plated steel |
| Weight | Approx. 40 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Transfer Bar Safety System – Why it matters: Unlike original 1873s that could fire if the hammer was struck, this system blocks the firing pin until the trigger is deliberately pulled. That’s a must for apartment dwellers who keep a loaded wheelgun bedside.
- Nickel Finish – Why it matters: Resists corrosion better than blued steel in humid environments—think coastal city carry or sweaty summer concealment. Plus, it looks sharp under low-light conditions.
- 5.50-inch Barrel – Why it matters: Balances sight radius for accuracy with a compact enough profile for holster carry. Not too long for a nightstand gun, not too short for hitting steel at 25 yards.
- White PVC Grip with Trump Design – Why it matters: Provides a non-slip surface even with sweaty hands, and the distinctive look makes it easy to identify in a safe or at the range. It’s a nod to personal expression without sacrificing function.
- Engraved Steel Frame – Why it matters: Adds structural rigidity and period-correct aesthetics. The engraving isn’t just decorative—it helps dissipate heat during sustained fire.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the collector who shoots, not just stores. It’s for the urban CCW holder who wants a backup piece that doubles as a conversation starter. It’s for the apartment dweller who prefers the simplicity of a single-action six-shooter over a semi-auto with mag releases and safeties. If you appreciate mechanical directness—hammer back, trigger pull, boom—this is your wheelgun.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Transfer bar safety makes it drop-safe, unlike original Colts.
- Pro: Nickel finish is low-maintenance and corrosion-resistant.
- Pro: .45 LC is a proven stopper with manageable recoil in a steel frame.
- Con: Single-action only means you must manually cock the hammer before each shot—slower than double-action for follow-ups. Per Turner Fabrications specs, this is by design for authenticity, but it’s a trade-off for defensive use.
Comparison: Traditions 1873 vs. Ruger Vaquero vs. Uberti Cattleman
| Feature | Traditions 1873 (This Gun) | Ruger Vaquero | Uberti Cattleman |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety System | Transfer bar | Transfer bar | Hammer block (some models) |
| Finish | Nickel | Blued or stainless | Case-hardened or blued |
| Barrel Length | 5.50 in | 4.62 or 5.5 in | 4.75 or 5.5 in |
| Grip Material | White PVC (Trump design) | Hard rubber | Walnut |
| Price | $988.67 | $750–$900 | $600–$850 |
| Weight | ~40 oz | ~38 oz | ~36 oz |
The Traditions 1873 offers the most distinctive grip and finish at this price point, while the Ruger Vaquero is a workhorse but lacks the nickel shine. The Uberti is cheaper but uses a less robust safety mechanism.
FAQ
Is this revolver safe to carry with a round under the hammer?
Yes. The transfer bar safety system prevents the firing pin from contacting the primer unless the trigger is pulled. You can safely load all six chambers without the half-cock notch.
What holsters fit the 5.50-inch barrel?
Standard single-action holsters for 5.5-inch barrels work. Look for models made for the Ruger Vaquero or Uberti Cattleman—same frame dimensions. Avoid holsters designed for 4.75-inch barrels.
Can I use .45 Schofield or .45 ACP in this revolver?
No. Only .45 Long Colt (Colt) ammunition is safe. Using .45 ACP without moon clips could cause case head separation, and .45 Schofield may not headspace properly. Stick to SAAMI-spec .45 LC.
Is the nickel finish durable for daily carry?
Per Traditions specs, the nickel plating is harder than bluing but can chip if dropped on concrete. It’s best for occasional carry or range use. For hard daily carry, consider a stainless model.
Why Buy From Us
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
According to a 2025 firearms industry report, single-action revolver sales grew 12% year-over-year among urban shooters, driven by interest in mechanical simplicity and historical accuracy. This Turner Fabrications Traditions 1873 fits that trend perfectly.
Browse more options in our Revolvers category, check out Single Action Revolvers, or explore .45 Colt Firearms.




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