Colt 1st Gen Bisley Model Single Action Army SAA .45 LC Revolver, 1902 C&R

Sold for $3981.00

LSB#: 220817BP015

Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model

Serial Number: 232864

Year of Manufacture: 1902 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT FA MFG Co / HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871. / JULY 2. 72. JAN. 19. 75.” and with a Rampant Colt logo. The frame, trigger guard and back strap are marked “232864”. The loading gate is marked with assembly number “705”. The hammer slot is marked “W”. The revolver has extensive and deep relief engraving.

Barrel Length: 4 3/4”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is “V”-notch in the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered faux-ivory with smooth diamonds around the grip screw escutcheons and smooth borders. The grips have light handling wear with some scattered minor nicks and scuffs. There are minor chip-losses at the top-front of the left panel and the top of the right panel. The grips show minor discoloration. The checkering is generally well defined. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Chrome

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its current metal finish. The chrome finish is generally strong throughout. There is infrequent minor discoloration and light operational wear. There are a few other scattered minor marks. There is scattered minor erosion under the finish. The screw heads range from shrap to tool marked with strong slots. The markings range from clear to shallow, but visible. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good condition as refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder was made with a removable bushing, but it is currently seized in place. The cylinder locks up with light-moderate play side-to-side and some end-shake. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Bisley was introduced in 1894 as a target pistol. The name Bisley came from the famous firing range in Bisley, England. The Colt Bisley can be distinguished by the longer grip, the wider hammer spur, and the wider trigger. Bisleys were serial-numbered in the range of 156300–331916, in the same sequence as the Single Action Army. This example has been extensively engraved and given a new chrome finish, set off by a set of faux-ivory grips. The result is a striking revolver that is sure to catch some eyes. This will make a nice addition to a Colt or American West collection. Please see our photos and good luck!