A .22 rimfire 6-shot single-action revolver. First offered with 5.5" barrel length and fixed sight. In 1959, additional barrel lengths were offered in 4.625", 6.5" and 9.5". Based in appearance on Colt Single-Action Army, but internally a new design that features coil springs instead of old-style flat leaf springs. Also features a floating firing pin and is generally a stronger action than what was previously available. Early model had a flat loading gate and was made this way from 1953-1957, when the contoured gate became standard. Early models had checkered hard rubber grips; changed to smooth varnished walnut by 1962. Black eagle grip medallions were used from the beginning of production to 1971, when a silver eagle grip medallion replaced it. No "Red Eagle" single-sixes were ever produced. Manufactured from 1953-1972.