This Colt Model 1860 Army .44 Cal. revolver is a Fourth Model (three-screw frame, cut for a shoulder stock, and with a capping groove). The serial numbers match throughout on this revolver and this is "46,180"; this gives it an early 1862 production date. Sometimes known as the “New Model Army” these six-shot, single-action revolvers were the standard revolver for Union cavalry, with significant numbers making their way into Confederate hands by prewar purchases and wartime captures. This rates very good for condition, complete and all original, with good markings in both the metal and the wood. The metal overall is smooth, showing just some small light dings here and there with some darker gray stains and a little light freckling from firing. The 8-inch barrel shows mostly gray mixed with thin brown and with small stains at the breech there can be made out spots of factory blue. The barrel address is: “ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW - YORK U.S. AMERICA,". The front sight is in place.

The loading assembly is good, showing even a hint of blue. The cylinder is a gunmetal color with brown age tones and some small stains. The naval battle scene on this rebated cylinder is good as are the Colt patent and serial number stamps "6180". The nipples are dark but not battered down. The frame is smooth metal showing a faint bluish gray and a whiff of original casehardening particularly on the right side. The frame screw slots show some minor turning. The "COLTS" over "PATENT" stamp on the left frame shows light wear. The hammer and trigger show some blue; the trigger more so. The trigger guard assembly has a pleasing mellow brass tone. The backstrap has smooth metal showing a silver-gray mixed with original factory blue of 30%. The single grip wood to metal fit is tight. The grip has good color and finish with visible US inspection cartouches at bottom left side and right. Both sides show minor handling marks. As is correct, there are some small single-letter factory worker or inspector initials like "BB" on various parts. The mechanics are perfect.

The pistol is a very good example of the standard configuration Model 1860 Army in production from 1860 through 1873, with more than 127,000 acquired by the Union government during the Civil War and others making their way into the field by state or private purchase. It would fit very nicely in a Civil War revolver display.   [pe] [ph:L]

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