POTD: Sammy Davis Jr.’s Colt – The Quick-Draw Artist’s Revolver
Sam.S 02.25.25
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! The 1980 Colt Single Action Army revolver belonging to Sammy Davis Jr. represents more than just a celebrity-owned firearm – it highlights a lesser-known aspect of the legendary entertainer’s abilities. While most remember Davis for his singing, dancing, and Rat Pack performances, he was also an accomplished quick-draw artist and gun spinner who demonstrated his skills on variety shows and in Western films. This particular revolver features custom modifications by Arvo Ojala, Hollywood’s premier quick-draw technical advisor who famously worked with stars like James Arness of “Gunsmoke.” The modifications include a shortened front sight, rightward-curved and narrowed hammer, and lightened mainspring – all designed to enhance quick-draw performance. The accompanying black leather holster rig bears “SAMMY” carved on the inside of the belt and features silver buckles. According to Johnny Cash, Davis could draw and fire a Single Action Army in less than a quarter-second. This remarkable skill allowed Davis, who already broke racial barriers in entertainment, to excel in yet another arena typically dominated by white performers in 1960s and 70s Hollywood.
“Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Single Action ArmyType: RevolverGauge: 44 specialBarrel: 4 3/4 inch roundFinish: nickelGrip: pearlite”
Lot 204: Sammy Davis Jr’s Colt Single Action Army and Holster Rig – Iconic Documented Colt Third Generation Single Action Army Revolver Inscribed to Legendary Hollywood Performer, Sammy Davis Jr. with Quick Draw Modifications and Holster Rig by Hollywood Technical Advisor Arvo Ojala with Notarized Letter. (n.d.-a). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved February 23, 2025, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4090/204/sammy-davis-jrs-colt-single-action-army-and-holster-rig.
