Colt Model 1877 Thunderer .41 LC 4.5” Double Action Revolver 1893 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,236.00
LSB#: LSB250802TS004
Make: Colt
Model: 1877 Thunderer
Serial Number: 90816
Year of Manufacture: 1893 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .41 Long Colt
Action Type: Single Action/Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT. D. A. 41”. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. / HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / “ “ 15, “ 74. / “ JAN. 19, “ 75.” and with a circled Rampant Colt logo. The trigger guard and frame is marked “90816”.
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber on a bird’s head grip frame, with a Rampant Colt in an oval at the top of each panel. The grips have a few scuffs and scratches. The checkering has smoothed in most areas and in others is worn. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is well defined. There is slight erosion throughout the bore. There is fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 85% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows operational wear, oxidation, thinning on the leading edges, patina, and scattered handling marks. There is a large nick on the bottom of the muzzle. There are spots of vibrant blue left on the trigger and trigger guard. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Good condition. (See Mechanics)
Mechanics: The action functions correctly other than the safety hammer function. The hammer will not sit in the half cock position and will only go in the fully cocked position. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Overall this Colt Model 1877 Thunderer is an honest, collectible antique that rates in about Good condition. It retains roughly 85% of its metal finish with operational wear, thinning on leading edges, scattered handling marks and a large nick on the muzzle; the checkered hard-rubber grips are intact and in Very Good condition. The bore is serviceable but shows slight erosion and fouling and rates 6.5/10. Mechanically the action generally functions but the hammer will not hold in the safe (half-cock) position and only rests fully cocked — this safety/hammer issue requires attention.
We also recommend a careful cleaning and light metal conservation to remove fouling and surface oxidation. Once serviced, this Thunderer will make a desirable addition to a Colt or late-19th century revolver collection and is appropriate for display or cautious use after professional repair. Please see our photos and good luck with your bid! -N.P
