colt or usfa

[Hangtown Frye]

I am the proud owner of four Colt SAA's: Two are 1st Gen BP fame .45's, one is a "Pre-War" (pre-WWI in fact) .45, and between them all they encompass the three standard barrel lengths. I adore them, shoot them, and they are smooth as silk to use.  I also own one 3rd Gen. Colt, a Sheriff's Model which was made in the mid-1980's, and is my every-day concealed-carry gun.  It's a tad rough by comparison I must admit, but I love them all, and plan on never parting with any of them.

That being said, if I was starting from scratch, I'd probably get a pair of USFA's.  The one's I've handled have been absolutely superb, and I kick myself for letting one go (complete with spare cylinder!) that I could have possibly afforded had I hocked something, but I was being financially prudent at the time, unfortunately. Ah, the one's that get away! I still occasionally kick myself for that one.

Hearing what some of the latest posters have said about the new Colts is encouraging however, so who knows. But as a Colt fanatic, I wouldn't sell the USFA guns short. For a shooter that is just a flat gorgeous, smooth SAA, I do admire the USFA's. 

Bottom line is, handle both of makes, and find one that you like and fits your budget. To hell with resale, since you're going to be hurting the resale value of a Colt by shooting and carrying it anyway.  Buy what feels best in your hand, shoot the bejeezuz out of it, and enjoy it!

Cheers!

Gordon

[Sam Diego]

The USFA looks like a great firearm...I'd shoot the hell outta of it if I were shooting for competition...It wouldn't bother me much because it's not my Colt...that one gets shot too...but I treat it like a lady...oh I get rough with it...but I do it gently! 

[Virginia Gentleman]

Aside from the Coltaholic's affection and lemming like love of the little Pony, USFA quality, authenticity and shootingwise is far better than the Colt 3rd generation.  If you want to think the Colt 3rd gens are magic and eventhough they are not the same as a 1st or second generation gun are somehow better, then by all means dump the extra greenbacks into the Colt, but if you want a better gun all around and want to save a few shillings, get the USFA.