Colt Bisley Model 32 W.C.F. 4.75″ Single Action Revolver MFD 1904 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,201.69
LSB#: 241207AA239
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army Bisley
Serial Number: 256993
Year of Manufacture: 1904 (C&R)
Caliber: .32-20 Winchester (.32 W.C.F.)
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Fixed Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BISLEY MODEL 32 W.C.F.” The top of the barrel is marked “COLTS PT F.A. 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” followed by the Colt Rampant Horse logo. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with a triangle inspection mark. The bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and butt of the grip frame are marked “256993.” The inside of the grips is marked “COLT BISLEY.”
Barrel Length: 4.75”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a square notch in the top strap. The front sight has been filed down to be thinner.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fitted with faux ivory wood grips. There are some light scratches present but no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with Case Hardened Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7.5/10.
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 60% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows moderate operational wear, surface oxidation and patina. The markings are faint, The screw heads are lightly tooled but remain serviceable. The pins are unmarred. Overall, this revolver rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with little play on each chamber. 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: None
Our Assessment: The Colt Single Action Army Bisley was introduced in the late 19th century as a specialized target revolver with a redesigned grip, hammer, and trigger intended for one-handed shooting. This example, chambered in .32-20 W.C.F., was manufactured in 1904 and remains a desirable piece for collectors and enthusiasts of classic Old West firearms.
Designed for competition shooting, the Bisley grip offers a more natural wrist angle and a lower hammer profile, making it distinct from the standard Single Action Army. The .32-20 W.C.F. cartridge, popular among ranchers and hunters of the period, provided excellent versatility for small game and target shooting.
This particular revolver remains in Very Good condition, retaining strong original markings and mechanics while showing honest wear from over a century of existence. Whether you’re a Colt collector, a historian, or a cowboy-action shooter looking for an authentic piece, this 1904 Colt Bisley is a worthy addition to any collection. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
