Also known as "Single Action Army". Initially used by the US Army, it is the quintessential revolver and possibly the first reliable handgun in history.
It was produced with different barrel lengths: the short 4.75-inch version, the longer 5.5 and 7.5-inch forms, or the imposing 12-inch “Buntline Special” used by the legendary Wyatt Erp in service with Dodge City Peace Commission; has received several nicknames: "Frontier" or "Widowmaker".
The fact that it used ammunition of the same caliber as the Winchester M1873 rifle popularized its use, being the most famous revolver in the Old West. The movie industry mythologized the "Peacemaker" in the westerns of the 40s and 50s.
The Colt 45 is one of the weapons that have been manufactured for the longest time; Roosevelt had one engraved with his initials, and George S. Patton wore two.