John Bianchi’s Colt .44-40 WCF Frontier Six Shooter Revolver, Documented – C&R OK
Make: Colt
Model: Frontier Six Shooter
Serial Number: 228701
Year of Manufacture: 1902
Caliber: .44-40 WCF
Action Type: Single Action Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “Colt Frontier Six Shooter”. The top of the barrel is marked “Colt’s Pt. F. A. Mfg. Co. / Hartford, Ct. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “Pat. Sept. 19, 1871 / July 2. 72 Jan. 19, 75” and with the Rampant Colt logo. The underside of the frame, trigger guard and backstrap are marked “228701”. The inside of the loading gate is marked “720” (this number is not supposed to match the serial number).
Barrel Length: 4 3/4″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a notched top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber with Rampant Colt logos at the top. There checkering has worn and the grips have turned a pleasing brown. There is a small loss at the right toe, but otherwise no splits or cracks. These panels fit exceptionally well and show age very consistent with the balance of the gun. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Now Patina
Finish Originality: No Original Finish Remains
Bore Condition: The bore is actually bright and the rifling is just a bit worn. There is VERY MILD erosion in the bore. This bore is an 8/10 for its age.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 5% of its metal finish in protected areas only. The balance of the gun has turned a dark and very even patina. The metal is very smooth and there is little if any erosion. This thick patina has given the gun a very pleasing untouched appearance. The screw heads are sharp, with marking on the butt screw. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock up and timing is good and the springs are strong. We did not fire this handgun.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: There is a “Certificate of Provenance” provided that states in part “This certifies that the herein described firearm has been in the Frontier Museum Historical Center and the personal estate of John Bianchi for more than 35 years.” There is also an autographed color photo of John Bianchi provided with this revolver.
Our Assessment: This is a First Generation Colt Frontier Six Shooter, owned by one of this generation’s greats. Few names conjure up images of guns & gun leather or the old west like John Bianchi – certainly the last of his breed and one of the most influential individuals the firearms industry has ever seen. Owning one of his revolvers would be a prize, and this one shows lots of character and great metal.
Sold For: $3,021
