Colt 1851 Navy 2nd Generation Stainless .36 Cal Cap & Ball Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB260218HG024
Make: Colt
Model: 1851 Navy Stainless Steel
Serial Number: 29348S
Year of Manufacture: 1982
Caliber: .36 Cal. Black Powder
Action Type: Percussion Cap Black Powder Revolver with a 6-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY”. The cylinder is roll marked with naval battle scene The serial number is marked on the trigger guard, frame and barrel assembly. The bottom of the grip frame is marked with the last 4 digits of the serial number.
Barrel Length: 7 1/2″ Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass post fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch in the hammer and is visible when cocked.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one piece smooth walnut. There is light handling wear. There is a small chip in the finish at the top of the grip. There are no cracks. Overall this grip is in Very Good to Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless
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 97% of its original finish. There is light handling wear. There are light scratches throughout. There is a notable ding on the left side of the barrel about halfway down. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this revolver is in Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: This revolver is in functional condition. The timing is good. The cylinder stop locks up tight. As with all used guns a full cleaning may be required to meet your standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Box, Manual
Our Assessment: The Colt 1851 Navy 2nd Generation Stainless is a modern interpretation of one of the most iconic percussion revolvers of the mid-19th century, produced during Colt’s revival of its classic black powder line in the late 20th century. The original 1851 Navy gained widespread popularity for its balance, reliability, and streamlined octagonal barrel design, becoming a favored sidearm among civilians and military users alike. This 1982 example reflects that historic pattern while incorporating a stainless steel construction, offering enhanced resistance to corrosion compared to traditional blued finishes while retaining the classic Colt profile.
Chambered in .36 caliber black powder, this revolver follows the traditional six-shot configuration associated with the Navy model, providing a balance of manageable recoil and practical effectiveness. The 7 1/2″ octagonal barrel offers a long sight radius and stable handling, while the simple sighting system of a brass front post and hammer-notch rear remains true to the original design. The roll-engraved naval battle scene on the cylinder further reinforces its historical styling and connection to the original Colt production.
This example presents in very good to excellent condition, retaining approximately 97% of its original stainless finish with light handling wear and scattered surface scratches. There is a more noticeable ding on the left side of the barrel, and the walnut grip shows minor finish wear with a small chip but remains structurally sound. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, and the action functions correctly with good timing and tight lockup. Accompanied by its factory box and manual, this revolver represents a clean and well-maintained example of a Colt 2nd Generation Navy with the added practicality of stainless construction. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF
