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COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER

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Colt's belt pistol was a market favorite dating from the California Gold Rush and during its long production run, several variations were manufactured.  Without a doubt, the 1851 Navy was one of the most popular defense guns of the 19th Century, manufactured from 1851 to 1873 in numbers exceeding 200,000.

This example features a matching serial number “140001” on all parts, which place its manufacture in early 1863.  Stamped on the left flat of the barrel is the name “W.S. BOWMAN” in sans-serif font and there is no indication that this is a Civil War marking.

The octagonal barrel is 7.5” long with the top flat is strongly marked “ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA”. The bore is clear with only scattered light pitting and with strong rifling. The loading lever operates as intended and locks securely under the barrel. The gunmetal surfaces have a light plum tone. The barrel is covered with small dings overall, especially around the wedge as is to be expected.

Some of the rolled cylinder scene remains, along with the cylinder patent and serial number stamps. On the left side, “COLT’S PATENT” is stamped into the frame, as is “36 CAL” on the brass trigger guard. All brass frame furniture shines with a mellow hue. The hammer has been altered with several uniform notches cut into the top edge.

The walnut grips are still rich in color and where “checkered” by hand. The checkering pattern is repeated on both sides with some attention to symmetry. The lower “butt” edges were intentionally rounded-down thus any cartouches were removed. The left grip shows a closed crack running its length.

No Civil War collection is complete without a war-time m1851 Navy, a weapon that saw extensive use during the conflict across both sides and all theaters.  Given the wear and alterations of this pistol, it likely witnessed many interesting events.  [cm/jet][ph:L]

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire.

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