First Gen Colt Single Action Army SAA .45 Colt 4.75″ Revolver 1895 Antique
SOLD FOR: $4,075.00
LSB#: WY250310TP018
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, 1st Generation
Serial Number: 160354
Year of Manufacture: 1895 (Antique)
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Fixed Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “45 COLT” The top of the barrel is marked “COLTS PT FA MFG HARTFORD CT USA” The left side of the frame is marked “PAT SEPT 19, 1871. JULY 2, 72. JAN 19, 75” The bottom of the barrel, frame and butt of the frame are marked “160354” The inside of the right grip panel is marked “EDC” The loading gate is marked “178”
Barrel Length: 4.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a square-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 checkered Colt vulcanized rubber grips. Both grips have Colts rampants on either side. The checkering is worn thin in places from general handling and operation. There are some light scratches present. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & Case Hardened
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is some erosion and pitting present along with some stubborn fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 5% of its original finish in the low and protected areas. The rest of the pistol has transitioned to a beautiful speckled patina in white and brown. There are some light operational scratches as well as a turn line in the cylinder. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. This revolver rates in Very Good overall condition for an antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up well with minimal play. The hammer has a strong mainspring, and the trigger is crisp. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Colt Letter.
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army is one of the most iconic firearms in history, often referred to as “The Peacemaker.” First introduced in 1873, it quickly became the standard-issue sidearm of the U.S. Army and found favor among lawmen, outlaws, and pioneers alike. The 1st Generation SAA revolvers, such as this one, were produced from 1873 to 1940, making them highly desirable among collectors.
This revolver, manufactured in 1895, falls firmly into the antique category. Chambered in .45 Colt with a desirable 4.75″ barrel length, it embodies the classic look and feel of a Wild West revolver. The wear on the finish is consistent with its age, and it retains strong mechanics, making it a great addition for those looking for an authentic Old West collectible.
Whether you are a Colt collector, a fan of Western history, or someone looking to own an antique firearm that embodies the spirit of the frontier, this Single Action Army is a fantastic piece. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
