Negotiating a purchase

[alexanderom]

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I've decided to purchase my first USFA SAA when I get back from Afghanistan, as a gift to myself. I mentioned to my wife (HH6) what I had planned, that being a Singlel Action with Nickel finish and a 4 3/4 barrel. Her question to me was "why not save the money and just get a Rodeo 2?" I have to admit that I'm at a loss as to how to respond other than..."the regular nickel is more shiney".

What IS the difference between the two, other than the 'shiny' nickel or the 'satin' nickel?


Jack

[Doc Sunrise]

In terms of finish, that is it.  Standard Nickel will be shiny, and cost extra over the standard SAA price as it is am option.  The Satin Nickel is a matte finish that is already standard on the Rodeo II.  The issue for you might be if you want any other options, such as caliber or grips.  The standard SAA has more calibers available, usually at no extra cost, where the Roseo II only is available in 45 Colt or 38 Special.  The standard SAA also has the availability of optioning other grip materials over the standard black rubber, and the Rodeo II comes standard with what they call Burlwood, or brown rubber, and does not have the otion of other grips.  Overall, the standardization of the Rodeo II by limiting options, along with its less labor intensive matte finish has allowed it to be a cost saver.

As far as assembly quality, internals and shootability, they are identical.  USFA's craftspeople don't know if a gun is going to be a standard SAA or a Rodeo until they go for their final finish, so they are assembled with the same quality workmanship.

[J.D. Yellowhammer]

If it's important to you, another difference is historical accuracy. The Rodeo II finish is a modern invention--it didn't exist back in the day. The Premium SAA shiny nickel is period correct. If you ever join NCOWS (which demands firearms that are pc) the Rodeo wouldn't pass muster.

[RRio]

Shiny USFA:



Not So Shiny USFA:

[J.D. Yellowhammer]

Rawhide, is that shiny one yours?  Where'd you get the grips? Great looking gun!

[RRio]

Rawhide, is that shiny one yours?  Where'd you get the grips? Great looking gun!

Yep! Grips are the pricey walnut USFA grips that came on the gun. Best nickle that I have ever seen on a gun.

[alexanderom]

Rawhide,

That is a HELL of a nice firearm!  And I have to admit that the authenticity is a big issue, also. I hadn't actually considered that with the satin nickel, but it's a good point. I've been to SASS Shoots, but never an NCOWS. I'll definitely have to do that when I get back in the state. Decision made. I think I'll show the two photos to my wife and get the shiny nickel.

Thank you, gentlemen.

A.R.

[buck]

I was told by USFA that you can get different grip options on the Rodeo II also.  If thats what you want.

[Marshal Deadwood]

Rawhide sure has some nice guns. That USFA nickle of his ,,,I love the nickle,,sure,,but that walnut,,man,,look at that,,,that is the tightest grain (I'm talking grain now,,not figure)I ever saw ! Super walnut ...just super. The figure aint too shabby either !

MD