portugeejn Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 I’ve come to realize in my in my maturity that I prefer the 7 1/2” barrel on the Single Action Army & clones. I’ve got a few 4 5/8” barrel revolvers that I’d like change for the the 7 1/2”. My opinion question is this. Is it better to: A-Buy new guns in the barrel length you want, then sell the ones you don’t (or vice-versa). B-Trade them for the barrel length you want. C-Purchase barrels and change them. Or have them changed out by a gunsmith if it is beyond my abilities. Portugee John Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ranger Dan Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 I'd say, depends on caliber and availability of what you actually want. I looked for a year for a Ruger old model stainless 44-40 4.62" barrel to match one I already had. Finally I bought a 7 1/2" 44-40 and a 4.62" 44 magnum and swapped the barrels. It is not difficult, but requires some special tools and patience to get it right. If the guns you want are readily available, buy them and sell the old ones. If not, break out the barrel vice and rent the tools needed. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Garrison Joe, SASS #60708 Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 Go with "A" when you have a model that lots of pards will want. The 4 5/8" is very popular. The 7 1/2 is least popular, and you may find them used pretty easily. So, A but with a cheaper way to swap over. good luck, GJ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maddog McCoy SASS #5672 Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 If you are buying Colts, a 7 1/2 inch barrel revolver is usually a bit cheaper than a shorter barreled Colt. Changing the barrel on a Colt can devalue it if you don't keep the original barrel to reinstall and I would pay a good gunsmith to change the or if you can still get it done by Colt, I would have them do it and get a factory letter with it. I have found most people buying and trading Colts are real funny about them if they have been modified. If it is a clone, and you can get the barrel, it may be better to change barrel as a used revolver will not bring enough to replace it with a new one. if you change your mind, you can always change the barrel back and if you were to sell it down the road, having 2 barrels for a revolver may make it a bit more desirable. if it was a Ruger, I would probably sell it and replace it with a different Ruger. If you can not get the one you want in a Ruger, change the barrel and keep the old one as you probably will not harm the value of the gun. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tequila Shooter Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 How much do you like what you have? The action, finish, caliber, sentimental value, etc all should play into your decision. Then I’d look at availability of replacement pistols vs barrels, now a days who knows what you’re going to be able to find. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
portugeejn Posted November 9, 2021 Author Share Posted November 9, 2021 That’s for sure. I am finding some of the replacements I want, some just barrels, and some much more than I can afford to pay right now. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tex Jones, SASS 2263 Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 I just had one Colt rebarreled to 44-40 from 45 Colt. I have the original parts, which I can reinstall. Easier than trying to find one in 44-40 that doesn't cost and arm and a leg. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Totes Magoats Posted November 9, 2021 Share Posted November 9, 2021 I had a set of Jimmy Spurs Rugers NMVs that were 3.5” barrels. I sent to Snake Oil George for a set of 5.5” octagon barrels. So much better and the added weight and full brass front sites are helpful. Totes Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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