COLT Trooper .357 Magnum DA/SA Nickel Double Action Revolver, 1960 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1176
LSB#: 210826DM35
Make: Colt
Model: Trooper Mark III
Serial Number: 25163U
Year of Manufacture: 1980-1982
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “TROOPER MARK III / ? .357 MAGNUM CTG. ?”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame to the rear of the cylinder is marked with the rampant colt. The crane and crane arm are marked with the serial number, “25163U”.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade integral to a serrated ramped base that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the topstrap. The topstrap and barrel rib are matte for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece walnut panels with smooth uppers and checkered lowers. Each panel features and inset rampant colt medallion that straddles the border between smooth and checkered areas. There are light handling marks, but otherwise the grips are free of any notable wear or damage. The panels are both slightly proud to the frame. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel Plated
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi and the rifling is well-defined. There is no erosion in the bore, but moderate stubborn fouling persists throughout.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are very minor handling marks as well as scattered minot nicks that are most notable on the left side of the frame and on the barrel rib. Screws have minor tool marks with strong slots, and pins are not peened. All markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup has some light play with the trigger depressed. The double action trigger pull is smooth, single action is crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: From Wikipedia: “The original Trooper was a heavy-barreled version of the Officers Model Match and was based on Colt’s medium I frame. It was offered in .22 Long Rifle and .38 Special chamberings. Manufactured with fine carbon steel, it was available in both blued and nickel-plated finishes.” This example was produced in or around the seventh year of manufacturing, 1960, and is in exquisite shape, save for some stubborn fouling in the bore that a good, dedicated cleaning will almost certainly handle. It looks for all the world like a contemporary firearm desperately seeking to ape the aesthetic and functional quality of better firearms. But it is that better firearm, a sturdy and dependable Colt as lovely on display as it is in the hand. Just look at the lustrous nickel plating that has persisted for 61 years. Even weight distribution, powerful cartridge, this revolver is a knockout, and ready for a place in your collection. Good luck and happy bidding!