Colt Bisley Model 7 1/2″ .32-20 Single Action Army Revolver, MFD 1905 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1853
LSB#: 210608MW87
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model
Serial Number: 263542
Year of Manufacture: 1905
Caliber: .32-20 WCF
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.” The left side of the barrel is marked “(BISLEY MODEL) 32 W.C.F.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871. / JULY 2. 72. JAN. 19. 75.” and with an encircled Rampant Colt logo. The loading gate is marked with assembly number “8706”. The hammer slot is marked “1”. The frame is marked “263542”, the trigger guard and back strap are marked with tis number as well. The inside of the grips are marked “3742”.
Barrel Length: 7 ½””
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 hard rubber with rampant colts in ovals at their tops. Originally black, the grips have developed a slight brown coloring. The grips show light-moderate handling wear. The fit is quite good, especially considering they are replaced. The checkering is well defined and generally prominent. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is a mix of bright and gray, with pronounced rifling. There is scattered light erosion in the bore. The bore matches the exterior and is probably a 6.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 35% of its metal finish. A good amount of finish remains on this attractive old revolver. The grip straps have turned gray from handling, with a few nicks and dings. The same is true for the barrel and ejector rod housing. The leading edges of the frame and cylinder have worn, with a general light patina throughout. The erosion is very light and very scattered, seen more than felt. The screw heads are a bit worn but attractive. The markings are all legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
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 is a better than average and untouched (but for the grips) example of a 1st Gen. Bisley. This will make a nice addition to a Colt or American West collection.
Please see our photos and good luck!
