Colt and Western pistol

How to Choose Your Colt Replica

Start with the model and barrel length. On the 1873 Colt Single Action Army, the 7½-inch barrel corresponds to the Cavalry version, the 5½-inch barrel to the Artillery version, and the 4¾-inch barrel to the so-called civilian version. The shorter the barrel, the more compact the replica: ranging from 29 to 35 cm depending on the Denix model. The Buntline Special, with its 12-inch barrel, measures 46 cm.

Next, choose the brand and finish. Denix replicas feature a zamak frame—available in antique gray, nickel-plated, or marbled—and a solid wood stock; they can be cocked and struck, but are not capable of firing. The Kolser revolvers, made of zamak, brass, or both, feature a revolving cylinder and come in a decorative box with six dummy bullets. Finally, consider the era: the 1851 Colt Navy and the 1860 Colt Army evoke the Civil War, while the 1873 Peacemaker evokes the conquest of the West.

The Must-Haves of the Collection

Visit 1873 Peacemaker with a 7½-inch barrel, that of the cavalry, remains the standard. The Wyatt Earp's Buntline Special can be recognized by its 12-inch cannon, and the Colt Navy 1851 features an engraving of a naval battle on its cylinder. Among the other revolvers in this category, the Smith & Wesson Schofield opens with a tilting barrel and cylinder.

Show off your Colt and complete the collection

A Colt looks great in a frame: the display frame for a 4¾-inch Colt Holds the revolver and six dummy bullets, along with a gold-plated plate engraved with «Colts Patent Repeating Pistols.» To complete the set, add a a holster or a Western-style belt, then a Winchester rifle. When it comes to maintenance, Ballistol all-purpose oil is suitable for metal, wood, and leather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Colt Denix and Kolser replicas functional?

No. The Denix and Kolser replicas are not capable of firing: neither ejects a projectile. Some models can be cocked and fired, and their cylinders rotate, which enhances their realism when displayed, but they are intended solely for collecting, decoration, and cosplay. Each product description specifies the model’s moving parts.

What is the difference between a Denix replica and a Kolser replica?

Denix replicas feature a zamak frame and a solid wood grip, available in an aged gray, nickel-plated, or marbled finish. Kolser revolvers, made of zamak and brass, have a rotating cylinder and come in a decorative box with six dummy bullets. Each product listing specifies the materials and dimensions.

What is the difference between the 1851 Colt Navy and the 1873 Peacemaker?

The 1851 Colt Navy is the older of the two: it evokes the era of the Civil War. The .45-caliber Peacemaker was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873 and was available in three barrel lengths—4¾, 5½, and 7½ inches—all of which are represented in the collection.

Can you buy and carry a Colt replica?

Metal replicas are for adults only. When transporting them, always keep the replica in its box or in a case; never display it in public. At trade shows and conventions, metal replicas are usually prohibited: check with the organizer before bringing your cowboy outfit.

To understand how the revolver became a symbol of the Wild West, read our article The Cowboy Revolver: Why It Became an Icon of the Wild West.