Colt Bisley Model SAA 7 1/2″ .32-20 Single Action Army Revolver, 1904 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1866
LSB#: 210608MW85
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model
Serial Number: 255006
Year of Manufacture: 1904
Caliber: .32-20 WCF
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.” The left side of the barrel is marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 32 W.C.F.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871. / JULY 2. 72. JAN. 19. 75.” and with an encircled Rampant Colt logo. The loading gate is marked with assembly number “5147”. The hammer slot is marked “3” (upside-down). The frame is marked “255006”, the trigger guard and back strap are marked with tis number as well.
Barrel Length: 7 ½””
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is “V”-notch in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered hard rubber with rampant colts in ovals at their tops. Originally black, the grips have developed a slight brown coloring. The left panel has a crack at the bottom-front, across the indexing pin on the interior, which is threatening to extend and chip off. The left panel has a ding at the bottom edge. Apart from this and the discoloration, the grips show generally minor handling wear with well defined checkering and good detail in the rampant colts. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is a mix of bright and gray, with pronounced rifling. There is scattered light erosion in the bore and infrequent light pitting.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. The grip frame has handling wear in the grip areas, showing discoloration from oxidation. The frame has some areas with strong case color, mostly protected areas. The barrel has scattered finish wear, mostly along the left side and at the muzzle on the right. There are scattered light nicks, scuffs, scratches and light oxidation. There is some damage to the front face of the cylinder bushing and the head of the cylinder pin is tool marked. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with minor rotational play and light end-shake on each chamber. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Colt Bisley was introduced in 1894 as a target pistol. The name Bisley came from the famous firing range in Bisley, England. The Colt Bisley can be distinguished by the longer grip, the wider hammer spur, and the wider trigger. Bisleys were serial-numbered in the range of 156300–331916, in the same sequence as the Single Action Army.
This is a nice example of a 1st Gen. Bisley, showing honest wear consistent with holster use and its age. This will make a nice addition to a Colt or American West collection.
Please see our photos and good luck!