The Traditions Legacy 1873 is a single-action revolver chambered in .44 Rem Mag, built on a steel frame with a color case hardened finish. It's a reproduction of the classic Colt SAA pattern, done with enough care in the materials and fit that it works as both a shooter and a display piece. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1873 
• Caliber: .44 Rem Mag 
• Action: Single Action 
• Hand: Right Hand 
• Finish: Color Case Hardened 
• Capacity: 6 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 7.5 inches 
• Grips: Walnut Grips 
• Frame Material: Steel Frame 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar Safety System 
   

Features 

 
The 7.5-inch barrel gives this revolver a long sight radius and decent muzzle velocity out of the .44 Rem Mag cartridge. Single-action operation means you cock the hammer before each shot, which slows the pace but sharpens your focus on each trigger pull. The steel frame adds weight that tames .44 Mag recoil to a manageable level. 
 
The transfer bar safety is a practical modernization: the hammer cannot drop on a chambered round unless the trigger is fully pressed, which makes carrying with all six chambers loaded reasonable. Walnut grips fill the hand well and complement the case color finish. 
 

Usage 

 
This revolver fits naturally into cowboy action shooting, where the single-action format and period-correct styling are part of the rules. It also works as a hunting sidearm or a range gun for anyone who enjoys deliberate, one-shot-at-a-time practice. Collectors interested in the 1873 pattern will appreciate the case hardened finish, which varies from piece to piece and gives each gun a distinct look.

The color case hardened finish is what draws most people to this revolver first. The swirling blues and purples vary from gun to gun, which owners generally see as a feature rather than inconsistency. Build quality for the price gets consistently positive comments. The action is smooth out of the box and the walnut grips fit the frame without gaps.

On the range, shooters report reliable accuracy and manageable recoil for a .44 Mag single-action. The weight helps here. A few users note the revolver feels heavy during long carry, which is expected at this barrel length and caliber.

The historical connection to Western-era firearms resonates with the cowboy action shooting crowd and with collectors who want a working reproduction rather than a safe queen. Price and parts availability come up occasionally in negative discussions. Replacement parts and accessories are less common than for more recent platforms, and warranty or customer service experiences vary.