The Cimarron Angel Eyes is a single-action revolver chambered in .45 Colt with an 8-inch barrel, 6-round capacity, and a color case-hardened finish on the frame. It is designed for cowboy action shooting and target use, and also draws collectors who want a well-finished reproduction with a long-barrel configuration. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Cimarron Firearms 
• Model: Angel Eyes 
• Action Type: Revolver (Single Action) 
• Caliber: .45 Colt 
• Barrel Length: 8 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Finish: Color Case Hardened 
• Frame Material: Steel 
   

Detailed Features 

The 8-inch barrel extends the sight radius substantially over a standard 4.75-inch or 5.5-inch configuration, which translates to improved accuracy potential at target distances. The color case-hardened frame uses a heat treatment process that produces the characteristic mottled blue-gray-orange coloring; each frame comes out slightly different. 
 
Two-piece walnut grips provide a solid hold and fit the historical profile of the design. Steel frame construction gives the revolver appropriate weight and durability for regular use. 
 
The single-action mechanism requires the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot. This is the standard operation for this class of revolver and requires deliberate technique, particularly for shooters transitioning from double-action or semi-auto platforms. 
 

Target Audience 

• Cowboy Action Shooters: The long barrel and .45 Colt chambering are period-correct for many competitions. 
• Collectors: Color case-hardened finish and Cimarron's attention to historical detail appeal to those who prioritize authenticity. 
• Target Shooters: Extended barrel produces a longer sight radius that benefits deliberate accuracy work. 
   

Usage Scenarios 

Cowboy action competitions are the primary competitive venue, where the 8-inch barrel is often used in the "long gun" revolver category. For target shooting, the extended sight radius makes group work at 25-50 yards more tractable than shorter barrel variants. The revolver also displays well for collectors who value the aesthetics of color case hardening.

The Cimarron Angel Eyes 1858 .45 Colt draws consistent appreciation from the cowboy action and collector communities, with a few practical caveats from everyday shooters.

Design and historical authenticity get the most positive comments. The color case-hardened frame is specifically praised for its appearance and the way each piece looks slightly unique. Users familiar with the original Winchester-style revolvers find the Cimarron reproduction accurate in its proportions and feel.

Range performance is generally well-reviewed. Accuracy with the 8-inch barrel is reported as good, and the .45 Colt cartridge is considered easy to shoot with cast bullet handloads or lighter factory loads. Recoil with standard-pressure .45 Colt is mild.

Weight and balance at this barrel length comes up in practical discussions. The 8-inch configuration is notably front-heavy compared to shorter barrels, which some shooters prefer for target work and others find tiring during a full competition stage.

The single-action learning curve is noted for shooters new to the platform. The deliberate cock-and-fire cycle is different from modern semi-auto operation and requires practice to execute quickly under competition conditions.

Build quality feedback is mostly positive, with occasional mentions of minor fit issues on specific production pieces.

As an old western film fan, I get a lot of enjoyment from this accurate reproduction. Shooting it is great fun, though reloading with the .45 Colt cylinder requires removing the entire cylinder.