Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian .45 Colt
Classic single-action revolver with hammer-forged steel barrel and case-hardened frame. Features wider rear and larger front sights for faster target acquisition, floating firing pin, 5.5" barrel, walnut grips, and 6-round capacity.
The Pietta 1873 Great Western II Californian
This is a faithful recreation of one of America's most iconic firearms, built with modern precision and traditional aesthetics in mind.
Construction & Design
The Great Western II Californian features:
- Hammer-forged steel barrel and frame — drop forged and then CNC machined for durability and accuracy
- Case-hardened steel frame — provides authentic period appearance while maintaining modern reliability
- Blued steel barrel and cylinder — classic finish that resists corrosion
- Walnut grips — comfortable and period-correct
Sighting & Handling
Unlike many reproductions, Pietta understood that shooters need to actually hit their targets. The Californian features:
- Wider rear sight — easier to acquire and align
- Larger front sight — faster target acquisition in varied lighting
- Floating firing pin in the hammer — just like the original Colt design, this prevents accidental discharge and adds an extra margin of safety
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 Colt
- Barrel Length: 5.5 inches
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Action: Single-action, exposed hammer
- Frame Finish: Color case hardened
- Barrel/Cylinder Finish: Blued steel
The Bottom Line
The Great Western II Californian bridges the gap between historical authenticity and modern manufacturing standards. Whether you're a cowboy action shooter, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates a well-made revolver, this is a firearm that delivers both form and function.
Features
- hammer forged steel barrels and frame (drop forged then cnc machined)
- wide rear and larger front sights
- floating firing pin in the hammer and case-hardened frames
- walnut grips
