COLT ARMY MODEL 1860
1860 Colt Army Model 1860 percussion revolver, 8" barrel, 13 1/2" overall, chambered for .44 caliber ball ammunition; the most widely used revolver of the Civil War. The revolver is intended to be loaded with a charge of powder and a lead ball from the muzzle end of the cylinder. This load is then tamped down with a lever-mounted plunger beneath the barrel. The top of the barrel bears the inscription: "Address Col. Sam'l Colt New York U.S. America". The engraved cylinder scene is almost entirely worn away, but the inscription "Colt's Patent N.2963" is still visible, along with the extremely faint patent date "1853". The left side of the frame is also inscribed "Colts Patent" and the serial number "43171" is stamped on the rear underside of the barrel, the underside of the frame, the brass trigger guard assembly, and the underside of the butt. The iron of the gun bears a fine dark brown patina overall, while the brass remains bright. The dark walnut grips are slightly loose, and show some chipping at the bottom of the butt. The bore is dark but shows no pitting, with very strong and crisp rifling. The revolver bears some dings, scratches and wear overall from extensive use, but the action remains tight and crisp. Very good overall.