The Traditions 1873 Frontier is a single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, with the ability to also fire .38 Special. It's built around the classic 1873 SAA pattern and finished with color case hardening on the steel frame and a blued cylinder. 
 
Key Specifications 

• Brand: Traditions 
• Model Name: 1873 Frontier 
• Caliber: .357 Mag (also fires .38 Special) 
• Action Type: Single Action Only (SAO) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 3.5 inches 
• Overall Length: 9.5 inches 
• Weight: 35 oz (approximately 2.2 lbs) 
• Sights: Blade Front Sight 
• Grip Type: Walnut Navy Size Grip 
• Frame Material/Finish: Color case hardened steel frame, blued cylinder 
   
  Detailed Features 
  The SAO action requires cocking the hammer before each shot, giving a clean, light break that suits precision work. At 3.5 inches the barrel is short enough for quick handling without pushing effective range too far. Color case hardening gives the frame its vintage look and also adds some surface hardness. The walnut Navy-size grip is a bit smaller than a full-size SAA grip, which most shooters find manageable though not as comfortable as a larger frame for .357 loads.

Discussions about the Traditions 1873 Frontier .357 Mag revolver tend to focus on its dual nature as a shooter and a display piece.

The case-hardened finish gets consistent praise for its appearance. It looks like a period piece straight out of the box. Collectors appreciate that it reads as authentic rather than cheap reproduction.

As a shooter, owners note the action is smooth and the .357 Magnum caliber gives real flexibility. Most run .38 Special for range work and step up to .357 when needed. The dual-caliber capability is genuinely useful and comes up in almost every positive review.

Weight is the main practical concern. At 35 oz it's not a carry gun, and some find prolonged shooting sessions tiring. Fit and finish gets mixed marks. The majority of owners are satisfied, but there are occasional notes about minor variation in quality control between units.

Users interested in cowboy action shooting gravitate toward it specifically for its short barrel and authentic styling. The general consensus is that it performs well within its intended role.