You’ll find the Colt New Frontier, introduced in 1961, combines classic Single Action Army design with enhanced target features. It sports a distinctive case-hardened frame, Colt Blue finish, and adjustable Elliason rear sight. Available in multiple chamberings (.45 Colt, .357 Magnum, .44 Special), it offers barrel lengths from 4.75″ to 7.5″. While new models average $1,128, used versions typically fetch $719. This premium revolver’s legacy of accuracy and reliability holds many fascinating details.
Key Takeaways
- The Colt New Frontier, introduced in 1961, features a distinctive heavy flattop frame and adjustable Elliason rear sight for enhanced accuracy.
- Available in multiple calibers including .45 Colt, .357 Magnum, and .44 Special, with barrel length options of 4.75″, 5.5″, or 7.5″.
- Premium aesthetics include case-hardened frame, Colt Blue finish, and walnut stocks for both visual appeal and comfortable handling.
- New models average $1,127.73, while used models typically sell for $719.14 in current market conditions.
- Despite safety concerns with the notch and hammer design, the revolver maintains high reliability rankings with proper maintenance and handling.
Description
The Colt New Frontier, introduced in 1961, represented a significant advancement in single-action revolver design. You’ll find this model features a distinctive heavy flattop frame and adjustable rear sight.
The New Frontier showcases premium craftsmanship with its case-hardened frame and Colt Blue finish. Initially offered in multiple calibers including .45 Colt and .357 Magnum, today’s Colt New Frontier comes in .44 Special with 7.5″ or 5.5″ barrels.
Price Range
Pricing for a Colt New Frontier varies significantly based on condition and specific model variant. You’ll find new models averaging $1,127.73, while used ones typically sell for $719.14. The trade-in values are notably lower than private party sales.
| Condition | Trade-in Value | Private Party Value |
|---|---|---|
| New | $733.02 | $1,127.73 |
| Used | $467.44 | $719.14 |
Recent sales of the Colt New Frontier have ranged from $345 for .22 LR Scout models to $1,521 for .45 Colt variants.
Specifications
You’ll find the Colt New Frontier revolver packs impressive specs into its compact frame, offering multiple chambering options including .45 Colt, .357 Magnum, .44 Special, and .38 Special. The revolver’s case-hardened frame and blue finish complement its walnut grips, while the full-length cylinder bushing ensures reliable operation. Its barrel lengths range from 4.75 to 7.5 inches, making it approximately 7/8 the size of the traditional Single Action Army.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Case-hardened steel |
| Barrel Options | 4.75″, 5.5″, 7.5″ |
| Chamberings | .45 Colt, .357 Mag, .44 Special, .38 Special |
| Sight System | Adjustable Elliason rear sight |
Weight
Weight specifications of Colt’s New Frontier revolver vary slightly by model, with the standard version weighing 39 ounces unloaded and the .45 caliber variant coming in at 40.5 ounces.
The New Frontier’s balanced weight distribution complements its 11-inch overall length and 1.3-inch cylinder diameter, making it a well-proportioned revolver that you’ll find easy to handle and aim.
Barrel Length
The Colt New Frontier revolver came standard with three distinct barrel length options: 4.75″, 5.5″, and 7.5″.
You’ll find the 4.75″ model offers excellent maneuverability for quick handling, while the 7.5″ barrel delivers enhanced velocity and longer sight radius for improved accuracy.
The 5.5″ version strikes a balance between the two, combining portability with downrange performance in a mid-sized package.
Material Made Out Of
Precision-engineered materials define the Colt New Frontier’s construction, featuring a case-hardened frame paired with a blued barrel and cylinder assembly.
You’ll find a full-length cylinder pin bushing crafted for smooth operation and easy maintenance. The revolver’s hand-fitted components ensure tight tolerances, while smooth, oil-finished walnut grips with Colt medallions complete the classic design.
Chambered In
Versatile chambering options made the Colt New Frontier a standout choice among single-action revolvers. You’ll find it chambered in .45 Colt with .455″ throats, ideal for .452″ and .454″ cast bullets, while the .44 Special version features .429″ throats that work best with .429″ and .430″ bullets.
Whether you’re shooting mild 800-1,000 fps loads or pushing heavier rounds up to 1,200 fps, you’ll have the power you need.
Capacity
Standard configuration of the New Frontier provides six rounds in its rotating cylinder, though experienced shooters often load only five rounds and leave the hammer down on an empty chamber for added safety.
This single action revolver offers versatility with its interchangeable mag cylinder system, allowing you to switch between .22 LR and .22 WMR rounds while maintaining the same six-round capacity.
Trigger Pull
The Colt New Frontier features a trigger pull of approximately 6 pounds, noticeably heavier than its competitor, the Ruger Single Six, which measures under 4 pounds. While this single action revolver’s trigger pull may require more deliberate pressure, you’ll find the overall fit and finish compensate for this characteristic.
However, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the half-cock loading system, which some shooters consider less intuitive.
Safety?
Since safety considerations are paramount with single-action revolvers, you’ll need to follow specific protocols when handling the Colt New Frontier. The fragile safety notch isn’t reliable, so you must load only five cartridges, keeping the hammer down on an empty chamber.
This proven “five beans in the wheel” technique allows safe loading even in darkness. Always handle with care, as dropping can cause discharge.
Action
Featuring Colt’s legendary single-action design, the New Frontier revolver operates with a smooth, crisp mechanism that requires manual cocking of the hammer before each shot.
You’ll find the revolver employs a full-length cylinder bushing and a robust flattop frame, ensuring reliable operation. For safety, you should only load five rounds, leaving the chamber under the hammer empty due to the thin safety notch.
Optic Ready?
Unlike modern revolvers designed for optic mounting, classic Colt New Frontier revolvers don’t offer any provisions for attaching red dots or similar sighting systems. Instead, you’ll find traditional iron sights, featuring an Elliason adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight on its flat top frame.
If you’re seeking an optic-ready single-action revolver, you should consider alternative models to avoid compromising the New Frontier’s collectible value through modifications.
Review
You’ll find the New Frontier’s case-hardened frame and exceptional blue finish make it a standout in terms of aesthetics and build quality, though you’ll need to weigh this against its higher price point compared to competitors like the Ruger Single Six.
The revolver’s tight lockup and well-fitted parts contribute to reliable performance, while its uniform chamber throats allow for excellent accuracy when using both factory ammunition and custom-cast bullets.
When considering reliability, you should note that the Ruger Single Six typically edges out the New Frontier, particularly when shooting .22 WMR rounds.
Pros
The Colt New Frontier stands out as a masterpiece of craftsmanship, combining a stunning case-hardened frame with a dark blue finish and meticulously hand-fitted parts. You’ll appreciate the precision of its adjustable sights, featuring a tall ramp front sight and Elliason rear sight for superior target acquisition.
| Feature | Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Case-hardened frame | Visual appeal | Premium aesthetics |
| Adjustable sights | Precise accuracy | Enhanced shooting |
| Full-length bushing | Easy maintenance | Practical handling |
| Walnut stocks | Comfortable grip | Superior control |
| Hand-fitted parts | Quality build | Lasting reliability |
Cons
Despite its elegant design, several critical safety concerns plague the Colt New Frontier’s operation. You’ll need to be cautious with the thin safety notch, which can fail unexpectedly. The revolver can discharge if dropped, making it potentially dangerous. Always load only 5 rounds, leaving an empty chamber under the hammer.
| Safety Issue | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Safety Notch | High |
| Drop Risk | Severe |
| Hammer Design | Moderate |
| Loading Capacity | Manageable |
Reliability
Consistently ranked among top revolvers, Colt’s New Frontier demonstrates exceptional reliability through its precise engineering and robust construction. You’ll find the Colt New Frontier Revolver’s dependability stems from its full-length cylinder bushing and meticulous part fitting.
The predictable trigger pull and solid lockup ensure consistent performance, though you’ll still need to maintain it properly for optimal reliability.
Similar Models
Several notable revolvers share design elements with Colt’s iconic single-action models. The Ruger Single Six, introduced in 1953, offers superior accuracy compared to the New Frontier and features interchangeable .22 LR/22 WMR cylinders.
The Colt Flat Top Target, produced from 1890-1898, preceded both with its adjustable sights. When Colt resumed single-action production in 1956, these design elements influenced the New Frontier’s development.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
The Ruger Single Six stands as the most prominent competitor to Colt’s single-action revolvers, outperforming them in key areas since its 1953 debut. You’ll find superior accuracy in the Single Six, particularly when firing .22 WMR ammunition.
It features a lighter trigger pull and safer loading mechanism than the Colt New Frontier, while its rugged construction and coil wire springs ensure lasting reliability.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your Colt revolver ensures reliable operation and extends its service life.
For your New Frontier, you’ll need to clean and oil the cylinder release latch, inspect the firing pin, and maintain the action by removing carbon deposits. Apply lubricant sparingly, check all external screws for tightness, and store your New Frontier unloaded with the hammer down on an empty chamber.
History
Since its groundbreaking debut in 1873, Colt’s Single Action Army revolver established itself as an iconic American firearm with its natural pointing design and powerful .45 Colt chambering.
In 1960, Colt introduced the New Frontier model, featuring a heavy flattop frame and adjustable sights. After multiple generations through the early 1980s and a long hiatus, you’ll find the New Frontier back in production today, boasting premium finishes and improved features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Year Was the Colt New Frontier Made?
You’ll find the manufacturing process of the New Frontier spans multiple periods in its historical significance. It first hit production lines in 1962, running through 1974.
You’d then see it return in 1978, continuing until 1982. After a lengthy pause in manufacturing, you’ll notice it made another comeback in 2011, with a special 175th Anniversary edition released in 2012. This cyclic production pattern reflects market demands and design evolution.
What Is the Most Sought After Colt Revolver?
The Colt Single Action Army (SAA), introduced in 1873, is the most sought-after Colt revolver you’ll find. It represents a pinnacle of innovation in Colt revolver design, combining perfect balance with reliable function. You’ll appreciate its historical significance as “The Gun That Won the West.”
While there are many desirable Colt models, the SAA’s iconic status, timeless design, and 150-year legacy make it the ultimate collector’s prize.
How Much Does a Colt Revolver Typically Cost?
Like a pendulum swinging between value and prestige, you’ll find Colt revolvers dancing across a wide price spectrum. With modern manufacturing techniques influencing today’s market, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,500 for a new Colt revolver.
The collector’s market trends show that used models typically run between $350 and $1,500, though rare pieces can command much higher prices. The specific model, condition, and historical significance will ultimately determine what you’ll pay.
Do Colt Revolvers Hold Their Value?
Yes, you’ll find that Colt revolvers consistently hold their value well in the resale market. Their strong reputation for quality and historical significance drives their collectible investment potential.
Looking at market trends, you can expect to retain approximately 60-70% of your initial investment, with some models appreciating over time. If you maintain your Colt in good condition, it’ll often perform better as an investment than many other firearms.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Colt New Frontier revolver represents more than just a firearm – it’s a bridge between the Single Action Army’s 1873 heritage and modern shooting demands. Through examining its production runs (1961-1974, 1978-1982), you can trace how Colt adapted nineteenth-century design principles for twentieth-century shooters. The adjustable sights and improved metallurgy prove that progress doesn’t require abandoning tradition.
0 Comments