Colt .45 "Generation"

[Teknous]

I'm noticing the references to 2'nd Generation, 3'rd Generation etc. with Colt single action Army revolvers. What does this refer to? Is it some revision level based on date of manufacture?

My Dad recently gave me one he purchased new in 56. I'm wondering what "generation" would this would be.

 

[GUNKWAZY]

Generation

That would be the PEPSI generation !!!

Just jokin'.

I believe 1956 would be the first year of production of the 2nd generation.
I'm not an expert in that field. Then again, I'm not an expert in any field.

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

 

[Jim Watson]

The first generation of SAAs was from 1873 until 1940, with a few wartime and transitional models the collectors get excited over.
The second generation of SAAs was from reintroduction in 1956 until 1974. Second generaton guns are mechanically the same as first.
The third generation of SAAs began in 1976. Third generation guns are mechanically different from earlier guns. Barrel threads are different, as one poster found out to his dismay. The cylinder bushing and hand are different. You can put a third generation cylinder in a second generation gun but you have to change the hand, too; as I recall.