Pietta GW357DMH434NMAE Great Western II Deadman's Hand 357 Mag 6rd 4.75" Blued Octagon Steel Barrel & Cylinder, Color Case Hardened Steel Frame, White Polymer w/Aces & Eights Grip, Exposed Hammer

The Pietta Great Western II Deadman's Hand 357 Magnum revolver is a period-correct single action built by FAP F.LLI Pietta for EMF Company. This 6-round revolver features a 4.75-inch blued octagon steel barrel paired with a color case-hardened steel frame, delivering authentic nineteenth-century aesthetics with modern manufacturing precision. The exposed hammer incorporates a floating firing pin design—no transfer bar—maintaining the mechanical simplicity of classic single-action operation while meeting contemporary safety standards.

The 4.75-inch barrel length balances handling characteristics with velocity optimization across the full spectrum of 357 Magnum loadings, from reduced-power .38 Special ammunition to full-power magnum rounds. The blued octagon barrel is a signature feature of classic revolver design, offering both functional sight plane integrity and visual continuity with historical single actions. The white polymer grip panels display the iconic Aces & Eights design—a recognizable motif among revolver enthusiasts—while providing ergonomic control. Unloaded weight of 3.16 pounds keeps the gun manageable during extended range sessions or collection display. The color case-hardened frame provides durable wear resistance across the grip area and trigger guard.

This model appeals to historical firearms collectors, single-action competition shooters, and enthusiasts seeking authentic Cowboy Action Shooting platforms. The Deadman's Hand variant carries recognizable appeal within that community. Shooters accustomed to traditional single-action manual operation—loading, cocking, firing, and hand-ejecting each round—will find the Great Western II mechanically straightforward and reliable. The 357 Magnum chambering offers versatility: shooters can practice with economical .38 Special loads or deploy the full ballistic envelope when needed.

The Great Western II line represents EMF's commitment to period-correct single action revolver manufacturing. The floating firing pin in the hammer—rather than a transfer bar mechanism—is consistent with original single-action designs and appeals to purists. Buyers should verify local and state regulations regarding firearm ownership and transportation before purchase. As a single-action revolver requiring deliberate hammer cocking and manual cylinder rotation, this platform demands disciplined handling and operator familiarity.