USFA "Cowboy"-History & Manufacture Dates

[Grover]

I am new to the Forum and to SAA Revolvers.  I purchased a USFA "Cowboy" in 38 Special from Cabela's.  I choose the USFA product because of some of negative comments of the current Colt products that had been made on the Colt Forum.  Based on what I have read, the USFA product is of the quality that could be purchased from Colt in 1900-1920's.

The "Cowboy" quality (fit and finish-Dome Blue) is excellent.  The revolver is a joy to shoot. 

Can anyone tell me what year it was manufactured (serial 5XXCB) or what the serial number range is for the "Cowboy"?

What is the history of the "Cowboy"?

Thanks for any information or comments.

[Blackpowder Burn]

Grover,

Welcome to the group.  I think everyone here fully expects that you will be purchasing more from USFA.  They make a great product that is addictive.  I wish they had a payroll deduction plan, 'cause I'd sure sign up!

I'm not sure what the precise production dates of the Cowboy model was, but it was short-lived.  It was recent, probably from about 2005/2006 to 2008.  It was intended as a mid-priced gun between the Rodeo (with matte finish) and the Premium Single Action (w/Doug Turnbull case hardened frame).  The problem was that USFA lowered the price of the premium revolver in 2008 to $875, thus making it so close in price to the Cowboy, that most folks bought the premium version, thus destroying the market for the Cowboy.

I did exactly that - bought a pair of premiums, then a Lightning Rifle, and then a pair of rodeos. I'm planning more when I can squirrel away enough money that my wife doesn't know about!   

[Grover]

Grover,

Welcome to the group.  I think everyone here fully expects that you will be purchasing more from USFA. 

I did-Model 1910.  I have always wanted a pre-war 95-99% Colt 45 ACP with the original box.  The finish is as good or better than the Cowboy.  The Pistol is well made and feels great.  I love the boxes the USFA uses for there pistols & revolvers.  I do not like the plastic boxes that other manufactures use.

I am thinking there may be a 2" or 3" 45 LC Snubnose in my future.

What caliber is your Lighting Rife?

[Skinny Preacher 66418]

Did you take the one at the Buda, TX Cabelas? I've been eyeballing it for a while.

The Cowboy definately has an appealing look having the all blue finish.

I found a 38/40 Rodeo at the Ft Worth Calelas...now I'm hooked on USFA.

[Grover]

Did you take the one at the Buda, TX Cabelas? I've been eyeballing it for a while.

The Cowboy definately has an appealing look having the all blue finish.

I found a 38/40 Rodeo at the Ft Worth Calelas...now I'm hooked on USFA.

I kept looking at on line and it kept saying "buy me, buy me".  So I called Cabela's and negotiated a price. When it arrived, it looked just like the photos.  I love the blue finish and that it chambered in 38 special.  It loves 158 grain bullets.

[Skinny Preacher 66418]

I kept looking at on line and it kept saying "buy me, buy me".  So I called Cabela's and negotiated a price. When it arrived, it looked just like the photos.  I love the blue finish and that it chambered in 38 special.  It loves 158 grain bullets.

Enjoy it...I should have been quicker on the draw   

[Blackpowder Burn]

My Lightning is 44 WCF and it performs well.  I've even shot black powder in it.

I'm thinking my next pair may be custom Rodeo II's in 32 WCF