Colt Single Action Army Artillery Model, U.S.-Marked, First Generation Black Powder Frame, .45 Colt, 5.5 Inch Barrel (1887)
This U.S.-marked Colt Single Action Army Artillery Model is a first-generation, black-powder-frame revolver chambered in .45 Colt with a 5.5 inch barrel. It features a screw-retained cylinder base pin, a one-line Hartford barrel address, and three-line patent dates. Matching numbers are observed on the frame, trigger guard, and butt, with a D.F.C. sub-inspector stamp on the cylinder. Manufactured in 1887, it is an antique example with classic military markings and desirable Artillery configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver shows widespread patina, finish wear, and areas of pitting. The grips have scratches and visible blemishes. The action does not stay cocked; when the hammer is fully cocked and released, it drops into the half-cock position and inconsistently locks the cylinder. Gunsmithing by a qualified expert will be required to return the action to proper function.
What's Included
- Colt Single Action Army U.S.-Marked Artillery Model revolver
This Artillery Model retains its correct 5.5 inch configuration in .45 Colt with a first-generation black-powder frame and a screw-retained cylinder base pin. It is equipped with fixed sights, including a blade front and a groove in the top strap, and a round, checkered ejector-rod head consistent with the period.
U.S. military markings include a U.S. frame property mark and a D.F.C. sub-inspector stamp on the cylinder. The barrel shows the one-line Hartford address, and the frame carries the three-line patent dates.
The loading gate bears assembly number 152.
Numbers matched: matching numbers are present on the frame, trigger guard, and butt. The cylinder is additionally marked with the last four digits of the serial number format, consistent with period practices.
Construction and finish details include a steel barrel and cylinder finished in blue, with a color casehardened frame and receiver. The one-piece walnut grip complements the classic first-generation Single Action Army profile. Manufactured in 1887 in the United States, this antique revolver represents a notable U.S.-marked example from the 1880s era.