The 1873 Cattleman Short Stroke is a single-action revolver chambered in .45 Colt. It has a 4.75-inch barrel, 6-round capacity, case-hardened black finish, and a one-piece checkered walnut grip. The case-hardened finish adds durability against wear while giving it the look associated with the original Colt SAA. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1873 Cattleman Short Stroke 
• Caliber: .45 Colt 
• Action: Single Action Revolver 
• Barrel Length: 4.75 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Finish: Case Hardened Black 
   

Features 

The single-action mechanism requires cocking the hammer before each shot, which encourages deliberate shooting and gives good trigger control. The 4.75-inch barrel is the classic length for this pattern, shorter than a cavalry model but longer than a Sheriff's, so it handles well in most situations. The checkered walnut grip is one-piece and fits a range of hand sizes without feeling slippery during extended sessions.

The 1873 Cattleman .45 Colt Case Hardened Black draws enthusiasts who appreciate the traditional SAA layout and .45 Colt chambering, but it also draws some practical criticism.

The case-hardened finish and vintage aesthetic are consistently praised. Most owners feel it looks and feels like a quality piece in hand, solid, with real heft that contributes to stability during shooting. At the range, the .45 Colt's performance earns good marks for accuracy and stopping power, and it's a common choice for cowboy action shooting.

On the practical side, the grip gets mixed feedback: comfortable for many, a bit heavy for extended carry for others. Price discussions are common, with most buyers concluding the quality is worth it compared to lower-end SAA clones. There's also an ongoing conversation about whether this revolver is better treated as a working gun or a shelf piece, most owners land somewhere in the middle, shooting it regularly while keeping it in good condition. Customization options come up occasionally; aftermarket grips and accessories exist but the selection isn't as broad as for more modern platforms.