Traditions Firearms 1873 Buntline Blued 45 Long Colt Revolver - 6 Rounds

The extra length gives you a longer sight radius that possibly makes you more accurate at distance. Although lots of people claim Wyatt Earp had no such gun and dispute the story that Ned Buntline had Colt make these guns for him and others, for distance shooting they can be advantageous. Earp's wife Josephine said it was Wyatt's favorite gun and in the Stuart Lake book he said Wyatt lost his Buntline into the sea when they sailed up to Alaska during the gold rush. Rough seas can do that. Josephine didn't remember if his was a 10 or 12 inch length of barrel. This one is the 12 inch reproduction but the 10 inch version is available from other manufacturers. This is imported by Traditions from Italy and made by Pietta and has the Ruger-style transfer bar safety to allow you to safely load all six rounds. That is common to Traditions revolvers made by Pietta. Some say the feel differs from a Colt when you fire it, but it feels fine to me. Some consider it a novelty revolver but shooting a longer barrel like this can really improve accuracy. The 4 3/4" barrels can be quite difficult to shoot accurately, and 3 and half inch Sheriff models are only good up real close, and although I have only shot at a firing range I consider the 12 inch barrel easier to shoot well.

This is a unique revolver that is very well made and a pleasure to own. I collect long barreled revolvers and this is a fine addition to my collection. These are in short supply and when one became available I purchased it immediately. Anyone contemplating buying one can do so with confidence. When they again are available jump on it and make the purchase. You will be glad you did.