John Adams Engraved Colt 2nd Gen 1860 Army .44 Caliber Revolver ATF Antique
SOLD FOR: $2,525
LSB#: 231102DT009
Make: Colt
Model: 1860 Army, 2nd Generation
Serial Number: 202694
Year of Manufacture: 1978-1982
Caliber: .44 Caliber
Action Type: Single Action Cap and Ball, Black Powder Revolver
Barrel Length: 8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a german silver blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is notch in the hammer, visible when cocked.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece smooth bone. The grip shows a few scattered small marks and minor discoloration from age and handling. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip is in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue, Brass & Case Color
Finish Originality: Refinished at time of Engraving.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore is a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The brass on the trigger guard has some discoloration which should polish up easily. There is handling wear in the backstrap. The bottom portion of the barrel assembly has some oxidation and has mostly gone to a light patina. It’s not clear how much of this is an intentional “antique” effect. There is a spot of stubborn residue on the outside of the cylinder. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in Very Good-Fine condition as custom engraved.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks in each position with barely perceptible play. We did not fire this handgun. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Colt officially regards the 2nd Generation production of their classic black powder pistols as original Colts. This pistol was produced by Colt’s Manufacturing, Co., not under license by the Colt Black Powder Arms Co. During early production Colt imported rough castings of parts from Italy and fitted the guns in the Colt Factory in West Hartford, CT. From 1978 until production ceased in 1982, the parts were produced by Lou Imperato and Iver Johnson Arms in Middlesex, NJ.
Since then, it has been to noted engraver John Adams as well as having a new grip fitted and installed. John Adams worked as a freelance engraver for Colt’s starting in 1976. Adams was selected by Ruger to engrave some 400 Red Label shotguns, engraved many guns for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and has done work for notable customers such as Tom Selleck and Sammy Davis Jr. The result of his work here is just a beauty to behold, with the only question being whether the pistol has been intentionally “antiqued”. In any case, it reminds us of a Roger’s Restorations work, not made to look as though it’s brand-new, just off the assembly line, but rather appearing as an incredibly high-condition original piece. This will make a wonderful addition to any collection, especially if you appreciate fine engraving. Please see our photos and good luck in your bidding!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
