Colt Model 1878 32″ 10 GA SXS Hammer Double Barrel Shotgun, 1882 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,575.00
WOA#: WY240519DW006
Make: Colt
Model: 1878
Serial Number: 12450
Year of Manufacture: 1882 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Gauge: 10 GA, Black Powder Only
Action Type: Top Lever Opening Sidelock External Hammer Double Barreled Shotgun
Markings: The serial number is marked on the barrel flat, forend iron, inside of the forend latch, water table, and the guard. Each lockplate is marked “Colt’s Pt. F.A. Mfg. Co.”. There are inspector’s marks on the bottoms of the barrels and forend lug assembly. The top of the rib is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”.
Barrel Length: 30″
Choke: Both Full, Both Fixed
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead fixed to the rib near the muzzle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with splinter forend, semi-pistol grip, straight comb and serrated black plastic Fajen buttplate. There is a repaired break in the wrist across the rear of the lockplates. There are some scattered light nicks and scratches. The LOP measures 13 1/8″ and 12 3/8″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate, likely indicating that the stock has been cut. The drop at comb is 2 3/4″ and the drop at heel is 4″. The buttplate has minor wear. Overall, the stocks are in Good condition as refinished and repaired Antique
Type of Finish: Damascus & Case-Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There is infrequent minor erosion and a few tiny, shallow dents. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate about 8 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 10% of its metal finish. Finish remains only in protected areas with some damascus patterning showing where covered by the forend and a little case color under the lever and on the water table. Other surfaces have mostly gone to a light patina. There are scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. The left firing pin is peened, it barely protrudes from the standing breech. There is some minor surface oxidation. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with usable slots. The markings range from clear to worn, but legible. Overall, this shotgun is in Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The left firing pin is peened, it does not protrude very far from the standing breech. Otherwise, the action functions correctly. The barrels lock up to the receiver with minor play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Colt hardly needs an introduction as one of America’s oldest and most successful firearms manufacturers. In 1878, they introduced a shotgun to compete with the likes of Parker Brothers, with similar workmanship and grades offered. It came into Colt’s catalog as their highest price item in their line. While they were only produced until 1889, the Model 1878 is still prized by Colt collectors, today. This example shows its age, but would display well in a collection with its “been there, done that” appearance. It would also be a good candidate for restoration. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
