Colt 1878 Frontier DA .44 WCF Double Action 5 1/2″ Revolver, 1883 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,190.00
LSB#: LSB251202KM014
Make: Colt
Model: 1878 Double Action Frontier
Serial Number: 10246
Year of Manufacture: 1883/Antique
Caliber: .44 W.C.F.
Action Type: Single or Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The top is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the barrel is marked with the Etched Panel “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER”. The etched panel is fully intact. The butt is marked with the serial number on two lines “10/246” forward of the lanyard loop. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “352”.
Barrel Length: 5 1 /2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a quarter round blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch in the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece Gutta Percha rubber grips with molded Rampant Colts at the top. The grips have turned to a brownish color with age. The Colts and the checkering is worn but the checkering is still fully visible. There are no cracks or chips. Please see our photos for details. Overall, the grips rate in Good Plus condition as an antique.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is defined. There is light to mild fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 75% of its original finish. There is more finish remaining on the barrel than the frame. The front grip strap and backstrap have turned to a brownish patina. The cylinder has a mottled finish and slight pitting on the face. The screw heads are sharp with usable slots. The markings are fairly clear. Overall, this revolver rates Good Plus condition as an antique.
Mechanics: There is slight play on the cylinder on lockup. Otherwise the action functions correctly. The double action trigger is fairly smooth. The single action is crisp. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1878 Double Action Frontier represents Colt’s first successful large-frame double action cartridge revolver and marks an important step in the evolution of American sidearms. Introduced during a period when single action revolvers still dominated the frontier, the 1878 combined Colt’s solid frame and side loading gate design with the added capability of double action fire, allowing for more rapid follow-up shots. Chambered in .44 W.C.F. (also known as .44-40), this example would have offered practical compatibility with popular Winchester rifles of the era. Manufactured in 1883, this revolver qualifies as an antique and stands as a tangible link to the expanding American West.
This revolver retains approximately 75% of its original blued finish, with stronger finish remaining on the barrel than on the frame. The etched “COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER” panel on the barrel remains fully intact and is a particularly desirable feature for collectors. The front and back grip straps have developed a pleasing brown patina, while the cylinder shows mottling and slight pitting on the face consistent with age. The two-piece Gutta Percha grips have mellowed to a brown tone, with worn but visible checkering and Rampant Colt motifs, free from cracks or chips, rating Good Plus as antique grips. The bore is bright with defined rifling and light to mild fouling, rating 9/10 in this writer’s opinion.
Mechanically, there is slight play in the cylinder at lockup, but the revolver otherwise functions correctly. The double action pull is fairly smooth, and the single action break is crisp. With its desirable .44 W.C.F. chambering, intact etched panel, and honest antique condition, this 1883 Colt 1878 Frontier offers strong appeal to collectors of early Colt double actions and Old West era firearms alike. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
BF
