Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army U.S. Cavalry, First Generation, D.F.C. Inspected, .45 Colt, 7.5 Inch Barrel (1884)
This First Generation Colt Model 1873 Single Action Army is a U.S. Cavalry-configuration revolver manufactured in 1884. It carries the "U.S." martial property mark on the left side of the frame and multiple D.F.C. (David F. Clark) inspector stamps, confirming its U.S.
military acceptance. It retains its original 7.5-inch cavalry-length barrel and blackpowder frame, with matching serial markings on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap and the last four digits on the cylinder.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This revolver shows various cosmetic imperfections, including scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss.
What’s Included
- Colt-branded soft zippered pistol rug
U.S. military acceptance is documented by the "U.S." property stamp on the left side of the frame and D.F.C. (David F. Clark) inspector initials. The D.F.C.
marks are present on the frame above the serial number, the underside of the barrel, the cylinder, and on the left heel of the walnut grip, with additional small inspection marks on the cylinder.
This example retains its original U.S. Cavalry configuration rather than later "Artillery" alterations. It features the 7.5-inch barrel with a full-length ejector-rod housing and round checkered ejector button, a six-shot fluted cylinder, and fixed sights consisting of a blade front and a topstrap rear notch.
The early blackpowder frame uses a screw-retained cylinder base pin, consistent with its 1884 production. The barrel bears the correct address: "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG CO HARTFORD CT.
U.S.A."
Collectors will note the matching serial markings on the frame, trigger guard, and backstrap, with the last four digits on the cylinder. One-piece smooth walnut grips with a left-heel inspector stamp complement the revolver’s U.S. service configuration and period features.