Description
The Alchimista I is Pietta's answer to shooters who love the classic 1873 single action but want something that handles a little friendlier out of the box. It takes the proven Great Western II platform and pairs it with an 1860 Army grip frame, which runs longer and slimmer than the standard 1873 grip and tends to point more naturally for most folks. Chambered in .45 Colt with a 5.5 inch barrel and a six-round cylinder, it hits that sweet spot between balance and authority that makes the round such a favorite on cowboy action ranges and at the plinking table alike.
What Sets the Alchimista I Apart
The grip frame is only part of the story. Pietta fitted this one with a wider, set-back trigger, which gives folks with meatier fingers more room inside the guard and a broader face for a consistent press. It keeps the standard Colt-style hammer, so if you like the traditional profile and feel of a classic single action, this is the model for you. The brass trigger guard and steel backstrap round out the 1860 Army styling nicely.
Fit, Finish, and the Alchimista I Look
The frame wears a rich color case-hardening that no two guns show off quite the same, set against a blued steel barrel and cylinder for a two-tone look that photographs as good as it shoots. The checkered walnut grips give you a sure hold without feeling slick, and the blade front sight paired with a rear notch keeps things simple and quick to pick up. It carries an exposed hammer and no manual safety, just like the originals it draws from, using a floating firing pin in the hammer.
Who the Alchimista I Suits Best
This one earns its keep with SASS competitors, western film fans, and anyone who just appreciates a well-built single action in a hard-hitting caliber. Pair it with your favorite standard pressure .45 Colt loads and a good holster and it will keep you grinning round after round.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Pietta
- Model: 1873 Great Western II Alchimista I
- Manufacturer Part Number: HF45CHSAR512NM
- UPC: 641996211355
- Action: Single Action
- Caliber: .45 Long Colt
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
- Barrel Length: 5.5"
- Barrel Finish: Blued
- Cylinder Finish: Blued
- Frame Finish: Color Case Hardened
- Grips: Checkered Walnut 1860 Army
- Trigger: Wider, Set-Back
- Hammer: Exposed, Standard Colt-Style
- Sights: Blade Front, Rear Notch
- Safety: No Manual Safety, Floating Firing Pin
What’s Included
- Pietta Great Western II Alchimista I revolver
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Alchimista I and the Alchimista II?
Both share the 1860 Army grip frame and the wider, set-back trigger. The Alchimista I keeps the standard Colt-style hammer, while the Alchimista II adds a lower, wider hammer designed for faster thumb cocking. If you prefer the traditional hammer profile, the Alchimista I is the one you want.
Is the Alchimista I good for cowboy action shooting?
It is built with SASS competitors in mind. The natural-pointing 1860 Army grip and the wider set-back trigger are the kind of upgrades competitors look for, and .45 Colt is one of the most popular calibers in the sport.
Does the Alchimista I have a manual safety?
No, it does not have a manual safety, which keeps it true to the original 1873 single action design. It uses a floating firing pin in the hammer for safe carry. As with any single action, follow traditional loading practice and handle it with care.
What kind of .45 Colt ammo should I run in the Alchimista I?
Stick to standard pressure .45 Colt ammunition, including cowboy action loads and typical factory offerings. Standard .45 Colt has plenty of punch for the range and keeps the revolver running happy for the long haul.





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