1397

U.S. Colt Artillery Model Single Action Army Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:0.00 USD Estimated At:5,500.00 - 7,000.00 USD
U.S. Colt Artillery Model Single Action Army Revolver
From 1895 to 1903 a number of "US" marked Single Action Armies, like this one, were returned to either the Colt factory or Springfield Armory where they were modified (to 5 1/2 inch barrel length), dismantled and refinished, often with little regard to which gun the refinished parts came from, resulting in a mix of serial numbers and markings. (Writer believes this SAA to be a Colt factory rework. These revolvers have a 5 1/2 inch barrel, casehardened frame and blue cylinder, grip frame and barrel. The serial numbers are mixed on these altered models and they were remarked by inspectors of the era. This revolver is serial numbered "8697" on the frame, "133302" over a "K" on the trigger guard, "7505" on the backstrap and the cylinder is un-numbered and is marked "R.A.C." on the rear face. It bears the standard one line address on top of the barrel, "P" and "R.A.C." marked on the bottom of the barrel and the two line, two patent date marking on the left side of the frame followed by "U.S.". The loading gate is un-numbered. It has the later curved style ejector rod head, standard blade front and frame notch rear sights and is fitted with smooth one piece walnut grips stamped with a small "R.A.C." on the bottom of both sides and marked "1902" over a boxed "RAC" cartouche on the right side.
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 8697
Condition: Very fine. The revolver retains 70% of the blue finish mixed with smooth gray and brown patina. There is some minor pitting on the cylinder and both sides of the frame ahead of the cylinder. There are strong case colors in protected areas of the frame, strongest on the loading gate and in the loading port. The grip is fine with some lower edge wear and scattered minor dings and dents. The inspector markings remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent.