What is the gun that won the West?
The American West played a significant role in the development of the United States, and the firearms of the time period were no exception. The "six-shooter" revolver gained immense popularity during the post-Civil War era and the late 19th century, earning the moniker "the gun that won the West." Colt’s Single Action Army (SAA) is widely regarded as the gun that won the West.
The Rise of Revolvers
Prior to the Civil War, rifled muskets dominated the firearms landscape. They were slow to reload and ineffective in close combat situations. The introduction of handheld pistols, such as derringers and cap-lockers, improved the situation to some extent. However, it wasn’t until Samuel Colt patented the first true revolver in 1835 that the modern revolver saw widespread adoption.
Single Action Army (SAA) Revolver
Produced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company from 1873 to 1940, the Colt Single Action Army (SAA) marked the pinnacle of revolver innovation during the late 19th century. This magnificent gun was designed to dominate the American West, characterized by its:
• Speed and reliability: Smooth cocking and firing cycle allowed for rapid follow-up shots.
• Easy reloading: The cylinder remained exposed, making it an ideal choice for quick reloloading.
• Sturdy construction: Chrome steel frame and barrel supported with a robust design that withstands harsh environments and extreme use.
Conquests of the SAA Revolver
The Single Action Army wielded by cowboys and outlaws alike, saw its fair share of combat. Notable victories by cowboys and law enforcement with the SAA S revolver include:
• The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1881), where Wyatt Earp’s brother Virgil and himself confronted the Clanton brothers in a legendary showdown using SAAs.
• Bat Masterson’s Winchesters and SAAs helped him subdue cattle rustlers and win many gunfights along the Texas-Mexican border.
• The early Texas Rangers, equipped with SAAs, played a crucial role in maintaining law and order throughout the Lone Star State.
The Decline of the SAA S revolver
As the modern 20th century came to fruition, the evolution of firearms led to its demise. The introduction of semiautomatic, semi-automatic, and, ultimately, fully automatic sidearms gradually replaced the six-shooter. The widespread use of .357 Magnum and 10mm cartridges further challenged the SAA’s practicality.
Legacy
Today, the Single Action Army (SAA) remains an iconic cultural symbol of the American frontier and the Wild West period. Its influence can still be seen in modern single-action revolvers, action-adventure movies, western fiction, and even branding – the Colt SAA inspired the design of revolvers used in various shooting disciplines.
Table – Comparative Specifications
| Comparison Parameters | Colt Single Action Army (SAA) |
|---|---|
| Caliber Options | .45 Colt (.452" diameter) (.454" diameter) + P |
| Barrel length (inches) | 4.75"; 5.5", 7.5"; and 8.125" |
| Weight | approximately 2.12 – 2.68 pounds (0.967 kg – 1.225 kg) |
| Chamber capacity | 5 |
| Trigger pull length | approximately 1-inch (2.54 mm) |
| Trigger guard size | approximately 12-gauge shotgun shell-width (0.75- inch / 1.905 mm) |
Key Statistics:
• Rate of fire: 0.5-1 rpm (rounds per minute), depending on the person reloading.
• Sighting range: approximately 30-50 yards / 27-45.7 meters.
• Practical accuracy: Excellent within 25 yards; limited beyond 50.
In conclusion, the gun that won the West has remained an integral part of the American West’s imagery. The Colt Single Action Army (SAA), with its enduring reputation for reliability and swift reloading, solidly secures its place alongside Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson as an archetype symbol of the Wild West and the era of handguns in the United States of America.
