Here’s the standard Denix non-firing replica single-action Army, except that this one is a lot more fancy than usual! It has antiqued gold finish, elaborate leaf engraving, and wooden grips. Check out this close-up video…. I’m pretty stoked about recently discovering my camera settings for “close-up” shots!!
A gold engraved single action is not a working gun, it is a statement, and that is exactly how the originals were used. Presentation revolvers were given to officers, to retiring marshals and to visiting dignitaries, and they were engraved and plated to be looked at rather than carried.
The replica follows that logic. The engraving is cast into the frame rather than cut by hand, the gold is a plating rather than a solid finish, and the grips are usually a synthetic ivory. Handle it with clean hands and store it in a case: the plating is thin, and a ring or a bunch of keys will leave a mark that cannot be polished out without cutting through to the base metal.
Is the engraving hand cut?
No, it is cast into the frame as part of the mould. That is what keeps the price of a fully engraved replica within reach.
Will the gold finish wear?
It is a plating, so heavy handling will eventually show the base metal at the high points. Display it rather than carrying it.