Colt 3rd Gen. Single Action Army Nickel .38 Spl. 7.5” SAA Revolver, Box ’04
SOLD FOR: $2,150.00
LSB#: LSB250811DM001
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army
Serial Number: S36478A
Year of Manufacture: 2004 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .38 SPECIAL”. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MGF Co. HARTFORD CT USA”. The bottom of the frame is marked “S36478A”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT.19.1871 / JULY 2.72 JAN.19.75”.
Barrel Length: 7 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch at the rear of a groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one piece smooth Buffalo Horn. There are no notable handling marks. The grain in the horn looks good. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little to no wear. There are micro scuffs on the polished surfaces. The screws are sharp, and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Lockup produces very little play side-to-side and minor end-shake on all six chambers. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this revolver, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with its factory box, owner’s manual, factory handouts, chamber lock & keys, and factory letter.
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army remains the quintessential American revolver, and this 2004-production .38 Special example shows why the design has endured for over 150 years. Retaining the same timeless form as the 1873 original, this third-generation Colt combines traditional craftsmanship with modern metallurgy, resulting in a revolver that balances history, beauty, and function. The 7½-inch barrel configuration recalls the original Cavalry model, offering long sight radius and superb balance, while the .38 Special chambering provides a smooth, accurate, and low-recoil shooting experience ideally suited to the target range or collector’s cabinet.
This revolver is exceptionally well preserved, retaining about 99% of its brilliant nickel finish with sharp markings, crisp timing, and a mirror-bright 10/10 bore. The one-piece buffalo horn grip complements the nickel finish perfectly, giving the gun a striking, high-end presentation. Complete with its factory box and accessories, this is a beautiful example of Colt’s craftsmanship in the modern era—proof that the Single Action Army still reigns as the finest expression of the American revolver. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
