When did 4 3/4" SAA's start shipping?

[jphendren]

Hello,

I know that originally SAA's were sold to the U.S. Army in 1873, and that those revolvers were the 7 1/2" length.  Were they also sold at that time to civilians, or only to the military?  When did they become generally available to the public, and in what configurations?  I have read that the 4 3/4" first became available in 1879, and also 1882, not sure which is correct.  I cannot remember ever seeing an 1870's shipped 4 3/4" SAA, but have seen one shipped in 1884.

Jared

[St. George]

Early 1879 - starting in the 51,000 serial number range.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[jphendren]

Thanks, good information.

Jared