Firearms Report: 13 Best 44 Long Colt Revolvers

The 44 Long Colt packs a significant punch in its chamber, making it a standout choice for those who need reliable stopping power. This article examines various models, comparing their performance and reliability to help you find the right fit for your needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I earn from qualifying purchases.

Reviews

US M1917 .45 Revolver Field Manual

This 2013 military manual walks you through every aspect of the Colt and Smith & Wesson M1917 revolvers, from their technical details to practical maintenance tips. Whether you’re a history buff or a collector, it’s the authoritative guide to these classic. 45 caliber pistols.

Rustler Men’s 44W x 32L Long Colt

Crafted from heavy-duty 100% cotton denim, these straight-legged, 5-pocket jeans offer a relaxed fit through the seat and thighs. The roomy design and classic styling make them a practical choice for both work and weekend wear, though some find the sizing runs slightly small. Known for their durability, these jeans deliver lasting comfort without the stretchy spandex found in more expensive alternatives.

London Fog Iconic Trench Coat 44 Long Colt

This double-breasted trench coat from London Fog combines classic style with practical features like a detachable wool collar and full-body liner. The attention to detail, from the gun patches to the adjustable straps, creates a coat that looks every bit as sharp as it keeps you dry on rainy days. Whether you’re running errands in the city or heading to a special event, this versatile piece adds a touch of British sophistication to any outfit.

Kolor Double Breasted Lightweight Overcoat

This navy cotton overcoat has a double-breasted design with peaked lapels and front flap pockets, keeping it practical and stylish for daily wear. The elasticated rear vent adds a touch of modern flair to the classic silhouette, while the button cuffs and long sleeves give it a clean, sophisticated look.

Wrangler Authentics Men’s Regular Fit Jean

These versatile jeans combine classic five-pocket design with modern comfort features like a flex waistband and generous 7 belt loops. Made from durable cotton-polyester blend with just the right amount of stretch, they fit true to size with a regular cut that pairs well with everything from casual T-shirts to dressier tops. While early reviews praised their quality, recent complaints about sizing inconsistencies and tear-prone rear pockets have raised some concerns.

Dockers Big & Tall Khaki Pants

These Dockers khaki pants combine classic style with modern comfort features like Flex Comfort waistband and Lux Cotton Stretch fabric. The signature pleats provide extra room in the seat while maintaining a sleek silhouette. Built for lasting quality with permanent crease technology and No Wrinkle protection, these versatile pants pair well with both dressy and casual tops.

Wrangler Authentics Men’s Big & Tall Stretch Cargo Pant

This relaxed-fit cargo pant from Wrangler combines everyday comfort with practical details like multiple pockets and a stretchy elastic waistband. The 98% cotton blend feels great against your skin while the 2% elastane provides just the right amount of give. Overall, these pants hit the sweet spot between casual wear and practical functionality.

Wrangler Authentics Mens Big & Tall Relaxed Fit Stretch Cargo Pant

Crafted from 98% cotton with added spandex for stretch, these Wrangler cargo pants offer both comfort and practicality with their relaxed fit and generous six pockets. While some users have noted minor quality issues like stitching problems and occasional tearing, many appreciate their durability and versatile styling that works well for both casual wear and outdoor activities.

Wrangler Authentics Men’s Blue Ocean Jean

These jeans offer a regular fit that’s both comfortable and practical, with the cotton-rich construction providing durability without compromise. Reviewers appreciate the straightforward design that works well for casual wear, though some note slight variations in sizing and quality between batches. The heavy-duty hardware and flexible waistband make these jeans suitable for daily wear, though durability can vary based on the specific production run.

Wrangler 44 Big Men’s Cargo Pant

These Wrangler pants offer a relaxed fit with a flex waistband that stretches to accommodate movement while keeping you comfortable all day. The cotton blend breathes well for warmth in cooler weather while remaining light enough for warm-weather wear. The generous cargo pockets and hidden tech pocket provide plenty of storage for your essentials without compromising on style.

Dockers Men’s Big & Tall Pleated Khaki Pants

These Dockers pants combine a comfortable, relaxed fit with premium cotton stretch fabric that moves with you all day. The classic khaki color pairs beautifully with both dressy and casual outfits, while thoughtful details like the deep pockets and no-wrinkle technology make them practical for daily wear. The slightly extended length and wider leg openings in Big & Tall sizes ensure a good fit for men who need that extra room at the waist and seat.

Docker Men’s Khakis

These Dockers khakis blend classic style with modern comfort through their signature blend of stretch cotton and premium construction details like button-through welt pockets and a relaxed, pleated fit through the seat and thigh. The pants sit elegantly at the waist with a straight leg shape that moves smoothly with your body. The extended waist and deeper pockets in the Big & Tall sizing make these pants practical for both shorter and taller builds, while the All Motion Comfort Waistband and No Wrinkles technology ensure you look sharp without the usual maintenance hassle.

EGW Cowboy Chamber Checker

The EGW Cowboy Chamber Checker stands solidly at 1.6 inches tall, crafted from durable 6061 T6 aircraft aluminum and finished with a matte black anodized coating. It’s the genuine article, using Clymer reamers that chamber barrels. Whether you’re measuring. 357 Mag, 44-40 Win, 44 Mag, or 45 Colt, you’ll be in good hands with this American-made tool that meets Saami specifications exactly.

Buyer’s Guide

The 44 Long Colt has established itself as a distinguished addition to the revolver lineup, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance and reliable performance. This guide covers essential aspects of the 44 Long Colt, from its mechanical specifications to practical considerations for new owners.

Caliber and Performance

Developed in 1873, this revolver chambered the. 44-40 Winchester cartridge, which later evolved into the. 44 Long Colt. The cartridge delivers impactful 200-grain loads, making it suitable for both target shooting and self-defense applications while maintaining manageable recoil.

Safety Features

Modern 44 Long Colt models incorporate enhanced safety mechanisms. Internal block safeties prevent accidental discharge, while manual safety levers allow quick decocking. Understanding and utilizing these safety features is crucial for responsible ownership.

Ruger Classic 44

The Ruger Classic 44 represents an excellent balance of historical authenticity and modern reliability. Its fixed-sight design and 4-inch barrel make it versatile for various shooting scenarios, from competition to personal defense.

Magazine Compatibility

44 Long Colt revolvers typically feature 6-round cylinders. When selecting ammunition, consider whether your model accepts higher-capacity tubes or if single-stack magazines are required. This choice affects both capacity and ease of carry.

FAQ

What makes the 44 Long Colt different from other cartridges?

The 44 Long Colt is a rimmed revolver cartridge that delivers substantial power in a compact package. Unlike many modern cartridges, it maintains consistent performance across different firearms, making it a reliable choice for both hunting and self-defense.

Developed in the late 19th century, this cartridge has stood the test of time due to its balanced performance characteristics, including adequate velocity and recoil management compared to its chamberings.

What firearms chambered for 44 Long Colt are available?

Historic 44 Long Colt revolvers from manufacturers like Schofield and Remington are collectible pieces, while modern reproductions are available from companies like Ruger and S&W. These modern versions incorporate updated safety features and manufacturing standards while maintaining the original cartridge.

In addition to revolvers, some modern pistols chambered for 44 Long Colt are available, though these are typically chambered in longer chamber configurations to improve reliability and performance.

What kind of accuracy can be expected from 44 Long Colt cartridges?

When properly maintained, firearms chambered for 44 Long Colt can achieve consistent group sizes around 2 inches at 25 yards with factory loads, though this varies by firearm and ammunition type. Handloading with quality components can improve accuracy to 1-inch groups in well-tuned builds.

Accuracy improvements through barrel length add more than 50% to velocity, demonstrating that while the cartridge performs well in standard revolvers, longer chambers enhance its potential accuracy and trajectory.

What is the typical velocity of 44 Long Colt cartridges?

With factory loads, 44 Long Colt cartridges typically exit the muzzle at 800-825 feet per second, producing 375-400 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. Handloading with modern powders can increase velocity to 875-900 fps with similar energy outputs.

This velocity range provides adequate penetration for hunting small to medium game while offering reduced muzzle blast and recoil compared to modern cartridges shooting similar ballistics.

What are the practical applications for 44 Long Colt ammunition?

Developed for both civilian and military use in the late 19th century, the 44 Long Colt remains relevant today for hunting small to medium game, particularly in regions with limited firearm restrictions. Its modest recoil and good penetration make it suitable for personal protection in controlled environments.

Handloading enthusiasts particularly value this cartridge for custom builds and historical firearm reproduction projects, while collectors appreciate its historical significance in American firearms development.

What are the legal considerations for 44 Long Colt ammunition use?

44 Long Colt ammunition is legal to own and transport across state lines in the United States, though local restrictions may apply. In some jurisdictions, it is prohibited in fully automatic firearms due to its relatively low velocity and energy output.

For hunting and personal protection use, check local laws and regulations. Many states allow its use for small game hunting, but restrictions may apply in urban or limited-access areas. Always ensure compliance with all legal requirements when transporting or using 44 Long Colt ammunition.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I earn from qualifying purchases.