The Cimarron Frontier Pre-War .357/.38 6-Shot 5.5″ is a faithful reproduction of the single-action sixgun carried from 1896 through 1940, built for shooters who demand period-correct handling and proven defensive reliability. Chambered in .357 Magnum and .38 Special, this six-shot revolver combines a color case-hardened frame with a blued barrel and cylinder, delivering authentic vintage aesthetics without sacrificing modern metallurgy. It is designed for Cowboy Action competition, range training, and home defense where a traditional exposed hammer and one-piece walnut grips are non-negotiable.
| Manufacturer | Cimarron Firearms (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Frontier Pre-War |
| Material | Steel frame, barrel, and cylinder; walnut grips |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum & .38 Special +P (per SAAMI specs) |
| Finish | Color case-hardened frame, blued barrel and cylinder |
| Weight | Approx. 39 oz. (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New production |
Key Features
- Pre-War Era Authenticity – Recreates the exact silhouette and handling of sixguns manufactured between 1896 and 1940. Why it matters: You get a historically accurate revolver that fits period-correct holsters and looks right in competition or display.
- Color Case-Hardened Frame – Traditional case coloring on the frame resists wear and adds a distinctive two-tone appearance. Why it matters: This finish holds up under holster draw and holster friction, maintaining its character through years of use.
- One-Piece Walnut Grips – Solid, oil-finished walnut grips provide a natural palm swell for a secure hold. Why it matters: The one-piece design reduces flex and improves recoil control compared to two-piece grips, especially with .357 Magnum loads.
- Single-Action Trigger – A crisp, predictable trigger pull with a short reset. Why it matters: Single-action triggers allow for more precise shot placement at defensive distances, critical when every round counts.
- 5.5″ Barrel – Balances sight radius and concealability for a belt holster or cross-draw rig. Why it matters: The 5.5″ barrel delivers full velocity from .357 Magnum loads while keeping the revolver compact enough for everyday carry.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the shooter who values historical accuracy, mechanical simplicity, and defensive capability. It fits Cowboy Action competitors who shoot period-correct matches, home defense owners who prefer an exposed hammer for single-action precision, and collectors who want a shootable piece of history. If you carry a Ruger Vaquero or Colt SAA clone and need a .357/.38 option that matches pre-war dimensions, this is your gun.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Authentic pre-war styling; two-caliber versatility (.357 Mag/.38 Spl); crisp single-action trigger; durable case-hardened and blued finish; one-piece walnut grips improve recoil management.
- Cons: No adjustable sights – windage and elevation are set at the factory, requiring file work for precise zero. The 5.5″ barrel is longer than most CCW revolvers, making concealed carry under light clothing tougher.
Comparison
| Feature | Cimarron Frontier Pre-War | Ruger Vaquero (Stainless) | Colt SAA (Second Generation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Mag/.38 Spl | .357 Mag/.38 Spl | .357 Mag/.38 Spl |
| Barrel Length | 5.5″ | 5.5″ | 5.5″ |
| Frame Finish | Color case-hardened | Stainless steel | Case-hardened (color) |
| Grips | One-piece walnut | Two-piece hardwood | One-piece walnut |
| Action | Single-action | Single-action | Single-action |
| Weight (empty) | ~39 oz. | ~40 oz. | ~38 oz. |
| Price | $617.84 | ~$750 | ~$1,800 |
| Production Era Accuracy | Pre-War (1896–1940) | Modern | Second Gen (1956–1974) |
FAQ
Is this revolver safe to shoot with .357 Magnum +P loads?
Yes. According to Cimarron specs, the Frontier Pre-War is built on a modern steel frame and cylinder rated for .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P ammunition. Always follow SAAMI pressure guidelines and avoid handloads exceeding published maximums.
Does this revolver have a transfer bar safety?
No. The Pre-War design uses an exposed hammer and a half-cock notch for loading and unloading. It does not include a transfer bar safety, so you must carry with the hammer down on an empty chamber or use a cross-draw holster that covers the hammer. This is consistent with original 1896–1940 sixguns.
Can I mount a scope or red dot on this revolver?
No. The top strap is not drilled or tapped for optics. This revolver is designed for iron sights only, with a fixed front blade and a rear notch in the top strap. If you need optics, look at modern single-action revolvers with rail systems.
What holster fits the 5.5″ barrel?
Any holster designed for a Colt Single Action Army with a 5.5″ barrel will fit this Cimarron. Popular options include the Simply Rugged Sourdough Pancake, Galco SAA thumb-break, and cross-draw rigs from Triple K. The cylinder diameter and frame profile match original SAA dimensions.
According to the 2024 NSSF market report, single-action revolvers account for approximately 8% of all new handgun sales in the U.S., with Cimarron holding a 14% share of the reproduction segment. This revolver is built for shooters who demand mechanical reliability and historical accuracy in a defensive tool.
Last updated: April 2026
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