The Turner Fabrications Traditions 1873 5.5 inch Nickel Revolver brings Old West style to your EDC rotation with a six-shot single-action frame built by Pietta in Italy. It’s a period-correct piece that shoots as good as it looks, with a nickel finish and white PVC grips that stand out in any pocket dump or range day setup. At $753.07, it’s a solid buy for anyone wanting authentic cowboy-action performance without the vintage headaches.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Traditions Performance Firearms (built by Pietta, Italy) |
| Model | 1873 S.A. (Single Action) |
| Material | Steel frame, nickel finish |
| Compatibility | .45 Colt (or .357 Magnum, per retailer variant) |
| Finish | Nickel (bright, corrosion-resistant) |
| Weight | Approx. 38 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 5.5-inch barrel — Why it matters: Gives you a traditional sight radius for accurate single-action shooting, plus a balanced feel that carries well in a hip holster or range bag.
- Nickel finish — Why it matters: Resists tarnish and moisture better than blued steel, so it holds up to humid environments and regular handling without showing wear too fast.
- White PVC grips — Why it matters: These offer a solid purchase for your hand, and they’re easy to swap if you prefer wood or custom panels later.
- Fixed sights — Why it matters: No adjustments needed—just point and shoot. Keeps the profile clean and reliable for cowboy-action stages where speed matters more than fine-tuning.
- Six-shot cylinder — Why it matters: You get a full load for range sessions or reenactments, and the single-action trigger pull is crisp and predictable every time.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits daily carriers who appreciate historical accuracy but still want a shooter that runs. It’s for cowboy-action competitors who need a reliable 1873-style sixgun, reenactors who want authentic looks, and collectors who add a nickel-finished piece to their rotation. If you carry a modern revolver but want a classic backup for the range, this is your entry point.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Authentic 1873 profile from Pietta—one of the top Italian makers for SAA clones.
- Pro: Nickel finish is low-maintenance compared to blued steel; wipes clean easily after range use.
- Con: Single-action only—if you’re used to double-action triggers, you’ll need to manually cock the hammer for each shot. That’s part of the charm, but it’s slower for self-defense scenarios.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Turner Fab Traditions 1873 | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms Glock 19 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Single-action revolver | Striker-fired pistol | Striker-fired pistol |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches | 4.18 inches | 4.02 inches |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 15+ rounds | 15+ rounds |
| Finish | Nickel | Black nitride | Black nitride |
| Price Point | $753.07 | ~$1,200+ | ~$900+ |
| Best For | Cowboy-action, reenactment, range fun | Competition, concealed carry | Duty, concealed carry |
FAQ
Is this revolver safe to carry with all six rounds loaded?
Per Traditions specs, the 1873 S.A. has a hammer block safety that prevents firing unless the trigger is pulled. You can load six rounds, but always carry with the hammer resting on an empty chamber for maximum safety—common practice with single-action designs.
Can I use modern .45 Colt ammunition in this revolver?
Yes, but stick to standard-pressure loads. Per Pietta’s guidelines, this revolver is built for modern .45 Colt ammo, but avoid +P or hot handloads to keep the nickel finish and internals in good shape.
Does the nickel finish require special cleaning?
No special cleaners needed. Wipe down with a silicone cloth after shooting to remove residue. Avoid abrasive pads that could scratch the finish. It’s more corrosion-resistant than blued steel, so it’s low-maintenance for everyday carry or range use.
What holsters fit the 5.5-inch barrel model?
Look for holsters designed for the Colt SAA 5.5-inch barrel, or specifically for the Traditions 1873. Many leather makers offer drop holsters for cowboy-action shooting. Nylon or leather options work fine—just ensure the barrel length matches.
Is this revolver legal to own in all 50 states?
Generally, yes, since it’s a single-action revolver. Check local laws for magazine capacity or age restrictions, but as a six-shot, it’s compliant in most jurisdictions. We ship nationwide.
Ready to Add This to Your Rotation?
This Turner Fabrications Traditions 1873 5.5 inch Nickel Revolver is a reliable piece of history that shoots straight. Whether you’re stepping into cowboy-action matches or want a nickel-finished classic for the range, it delivers. Check out more revolvers or browse firearms for your next build.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026






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