Discuss the Colt Cowboy for me......

Please tell me about the gun, finishes, barrel length, calibers, and grips. Sights available? When introduced and discontinued?

Bob Wright

According to what I've researched on the Internet, the gun was a close copy of the SAA, with a few parts interchangeable; barrel, trigger, trigger guard/backstrap, ejector rod assembly. These parts not so nicely finished as the SAA, but would swap out. The frame was investment cast and "color case hardened" similar to the original Ruger Vaquero. Grips were black plastic but not a duplicate of the SAA. Made in .45 Colt and 5 1/2" barrel only. Made from 1998 to 2004.

Transfer bar mechanism but half cock loading.

All this true?

Bob Wright

Are you saying die cast as opposed to investment cast?

Bob Wright

As far as investment casting, remember that Rugers are investment cast, which has been compared in strength to forging. Supposedly Bill Ruger drew from his experience making tank parts during WW II by the investment cast method.

Bob Wright

As to the stress incurred during firing, the barrel and cyinder do take the stress of pressure, but the frame takes a considerable of stress from recoil. The top strap is placed under considerable tension at the firing of the round from the inetia of the barrel.

I can tell you from experience having stretched a top strap until the rear of the cylinder bound against the top of the frame!

Bob Wright