Gear And Accessories
Big Iron! A Review of the Taurus Deputy Single Action Revolver in 45 Colt
Big Iron! A Review of the Taurus Deputy Single Action Revolver in 45 Colt
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Baytown, Texas
The Taurus Deputy Single Action Revolver in .45 Colt has recently emerged as a noteworthy addition to the line of traditional single-action firearms. Known globally for its double-action revolvers since 1941, Taurus shifted towards producing single-action wheel guns more recently. The Deputy represents this commitment, originally hinted at back in 2005 with the Taurus Gaucho, which albeit briefly, marked their initial foray into single-action territory. After acquiring Heritage Manufacturing in 2012, Taurus capitalized on their success in rimfire single-action manufacturing, generating a significant production output of around 187,000 guns annually. In late 2024, the introduction of the Deputya traditional SAA-based revolver available in either a 4.75-inch "gunfighter" style or a longer 5.5-inch variationsignified Taurus's re-entry into this segment with stronger footing. The gun caters to enthusiasts, featuring notorious calibers such as .45 Colt and .357 Magnum, reinstating the vintage charm of a cowboy-style revolver suitable for both sport shooting and practical use. For a hands-on review, Taurus provided the Deputy revolver for testing purposes. The evaluation spanned several months, giving the reviewer a solid grasp of the firearms performance under various conditions. The specs of the .45 Colt 5.5-inch model are impressive: designed with an overall length of 11.04 inches and a weight of 38.2 ounces when unloaded. Its 5.5-inch barrel is optimized for accuracy, paired with a sight radius of 6.25 inches. The revolver features a 6-shot capacity and a trigger pull of approximately 4.25 pounds in single-action mode. However, it remains important to note that it comes equipped with cowboy-style fixed sights, which requires users to apply Kentucky windagea method that can make accuracy inconsistent depending on ammunition load. On the range, the Deputy performed admirably, with a successful run of just under 300 rounds predominantly using .45 Colt ammunition. Ranging from Federal American Eagle 225-grain jacketed soft points to low-recoil Hornady Cowboy Action loads, the revolver experienced minimal stoppages, affirming its reliability as a fun and functional firearm. While reviewing the Deputy, its affordability stood out. At approximately $500, it presents a strong alternative to more established names like the Ruger Vaquero. The combination of traditional design elements with modern safety features, such as a transfer bar safety, provides a level of assurance absent in many vintage models. Prospective buyers may appreciate the revolver's ease of holstering, options of barrel length and caliber, and the appealing aesthetic summarized by the idea of carrying "big iron on his hip." However, the learning curve associated with single-action revolver mechanics and the drawback of fixed sights must be considered. In conclusion, the Taurus Deputy blends nostalgia with practicality, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate single-action firearms. As the popularity of such guns revives in shooting communities across the nation, makers like Taurus play an integral role in delivering options to the market, reviving classic styles while ensuring modern safety standards.