Colt Single Action Army SAA Bisley Revolver In .32-20 WCF, Shipped 1912
SOLD FOR: $1,713.99
WOA#: WY240519WO003
Make: Colt
Model: SAA Bisley
Serial Number: 323547
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1912 (Shipped Oct. 1912)
Caliber: .32-20 WCF
Action Type: Single Action Revolver 6 Shots with Side Loading Gate and Shrouded Ejector Rod.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked, “PAT. SEPT 19 1871 / JULY 2 72 / JAN 19 75” with the rampant Colt logo. The bottom of the frame is marked, “323547” The bottom of the trigger guard is marked, “323547” The bottom of the grip frame is marked, “323547” The loading gate is marked, “218” The barrel is marked, “COLT’S Pt.F.A.MFG.Co. HARTFORD CT, U.S.A.” There are proof marks on the trigger guard.
Barrel Length: 5.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter-moon blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a V-notch in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth wood with diamond shaped metal inserts. These grips are not original to the factory configuration. The bottom of the grips have chips, there are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There is a small crack on the right panel by the trigger guard. The grips are in Fair to Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with worn rifling. There is very faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 10% of its metal finish. The turn line is prominent. Most of the finish has worn off or turned to patina. The barrel retains the most finish. There are scratches and light impact marks throughout. There is light pitting on the face of the cylinder and at the underside of the top strap where there is a flame cutting line. The front sight is slightly bent. The screw heads are tooled. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Fair condition.
Mechanics: The action mostly functions as intended. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. The lockup is tight with only light play. The springs are strong.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Factory letter from Colt.
Our Assessment: This Bisley style Colt Single Action Army has had a long life, starting in October of 1912 where it was shipped to Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company located in St. Louis Missouri. The Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company was a prominent and influential business in the hardware and cutlery industry during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The company’s history is rooted in the rich commercial heritage of St. Louis, which was a major hub for trade and manufacturing in the United States. The origins of the Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company date back to 1843 when it was founded as Shapleigh, Day & Co. by Augustus F. Shapleigh, a native of New Hampshire. Augustus Shapleigh moved to St. Louis with a vision to establish a successful hardware business. The company initially operated as a wholesale hardware distributor, supplying a wide range of products including tools, cutlery, firearms, and general hardware to retailers and tradespeople throughout the Midwest and Western United States. The company played a significant role in the development and distribution of firearms and ammunition. During its peak, Norvell Shapleigh Hardware Company offered a wide range of firearms, catering to both civilian and military markets. The company’s catalog included hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns, as well as ammunition and shooting accessories.
The Bisley model, named after the famous shooting range in Bisley, England, was designed with a focus on target shooting and was first produced in 1894. It features several distinctive modifications compared to the standard Colt Single Action Army revolver, most notably in its grip, hammer, and trigger. The Bisley grip is more vertical and elongated, designed to provide a better angle and more comfortable hold for precision shooting. The hammer is lower and wider, allowing for easier cocking, especially for shooters using a one-handed grip. Additionally, the trigger is wider and more curved, enhancing control and stability during firing. Chambered in .32-20 WCF, the Bisley revolver offers a unique shooting experience. The .32-20 cartridge, introduced by Winchester in the early 1880s, was initially designed for rifles and later adapted for revolvers. It is known for its mild recoil and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for target shooting and small game hunting. The .32-20 WCF is also appreciated for its versatility, being effective in both revolvers and rifles, which was particularly useful during its heyday.
Overall, this Bisley Colt Single Action Army is a fantastic historical piece, and despite its obvious hard usage and wear, it is still in great functional shape. Its rich history and unique design make it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts, serving as a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of early 20th-century firearms manufacturing. Please see our photos, and good luck on your bid! -R.E.
