.22 Colt Revolver (Frontier Scout)

Specifications: Colt Frontier Scout 22LR

The Colt Frontier Scout is more than just a revolver — it's a nostalgic homage to the American West, downsized into the versatile and economical .22 caliber. Introduced in 1957 by Colt’s Manufacturing Company, the Frontier Scout gave shooters an affordable, lightweight alternative to the legendary Colt Single Action Army. Built for plinking, target shooting, and training, it quickly became a fan favorite — and today, it's a sought-after collector’s piece.

The breakdown of this gun is pretty straightforward if you know single-action revolvers. Open the loading gate, put the hammer in half-cock, load, close, and then full cock to fire. The weight is very comfortable and the hammer is smooth to operate. More in-depth specifications are below:

• Years Produced: From 1957 to 1970

• MSRP In 1957: Roughly $50 ($433 in 2021)

• Chambering: 22 Long Rifle

• Barrel Length: 4 3/4 or 9 1/2 Buntline

• Overall Length: 10.5 inches from heel to crown

• Weight Breakdown:

  • Early models (aluminum frame):~ 22 to 24 oz (approx. 624 to 680 grams)These were notably light thanks to the alloy frame.

  • Later models (all-steel):~ 30 to 33 oz (approx. 850 to 935 grams)

• Trigger Pull: 3lbs (1.36kgs)(This Example)

• Action: Single Action

• Capacity: 6

• Front Sight: Fixed Front Ramp

• Rear Sight: Top Strap Groove

• Frame Material: Early: Aluminum; Later: Steel

Why It Became Popular

The Frontier Scout earned its reputation thanks to a mix of practicality, affordability, and Western appeal:

• Affordable Entry to Single Action Shooting: While the full-sized Colt SAA was expensive and chambered in larger calibers, the Frontier Scout was perfect for budget-conscious shooters who still wanted that cowboy feel.

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• Ideal Training Gun: Chambered in .22 LR, it offered low recoil and cheap ammunition — great for new shooters and casual target practice.

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• Classic Styling: With its loading gate, ejector rod, and traditional lines, the Scout mimicked the legendary Peacemaker, making it a favorite for Western reenactors and firearm traditionalists.

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• Collectible Variants: Limited runs, engraved editions, and multiple barrel lengths made it appealing to collectors.

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• Convertible Caliber Models: Some Scouts came with interchangeable .22 WMR (Magnum) cylinders, adding versatility to the platform.

  
  

A Brief History

By the mid-20th century, Colt recognized a growing demand for affordable firearms that echoed the Old West. Leveraging the enduring popularity of the Single Action Army (SAA), they introduced the Colt Frontier Scout as a scaled-down rimfire version. The first production models came out in 1957, designated with the Q prefix serial numbers.

The early Scouts had aluminum alloy frames with steel barrels and cylinders, which kept the weight low and the price accessible. These models often came in two-tone finishes, with a silver-colored frame and blued barrel.

In the late 1960s and 1970s, Colt transitioned to all-steel models, responding to customer demand for greater durability and a more "authentic" feel. These were often issued in special finishes, including full blued or nickel-plated variants.

Throughout its production, Colt also released several commemorative editions, such as the Kansas Centennial, Arizona Territorial, and Scout Buntline models with longer barrels. These editions, some of which featured engraved frames and presentation boxes, are now valuable collector’s items.

Embrace the Frontier Spirit with the Colt .22 Revolver!

The Colt Frontier Scout remains a symbol of how practical design and timeless style can come together. Whether you’re a collector, a casual plinker, or a fan of Western firearms, the Scout offers something special: a true link to America’s firearm heritage — in a package you can shoot all day without breaking the bank.

While production ended decades ago, these revolvers still see range time across the country, and their value continues to climb in the collector market. If you're lucky enough to own one, you're holding a piece of Colt history.