Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter .44-40 WCF Double Action Revolver 1884

SOLD FOR: $1,852.00

LSB#: WY240918VB037

Make: Colt

Model: 1878 Frontier Six Shooter

Serial Number: 13605

Year of Manufacture: 1884

Caliber: .44-40 WCF

Action Type: Double Action Revolver, Side Loading Gate

Barrel Length: 5 ½”

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

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber with smooth borders, wedge-shaped smooth base and rampant colt in oval at the top of each panel. The checkering is still pronounced and there are only scattered marks and dings. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Traces of original blue on the barrel with cold blue touchup elsewhere.

Bore Condition: The bore is almost bright and the rifling is well pronounced and clear. There is only very minor erosion in the bore. The bore rates at about a 9 out of 10 for an antique.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 15% of its metal finish. There is evidence of a heavy cleaning and cold blue touchup on the frame. There are som tool marks at the cylinder pin release and scattered scratching elsewhere. The screw heads are worn but usable. The markings are clear with the exception of a light serial number. Overall, this handgun rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions imperfectly. About half the time, the trigger does not catch the hammer and a pull of the trigger only results in turning the cylinder. 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 Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter, introduced in 1878, was a double-action revolver chambered in .44-40, .45 Colt, and other calibers, designed for use by both lawmen and frontiersmen. It featured a solid frame and a swing-out cylinder, making it more reliable and easier to reload compared to earlier Colt revolvers. The Model 1878 was favored by many law enforcement officers and was also popular among cowboys and hunters in the American West. Although it was eventually overshadowed by the Colt Single Action Army, the 1878 Frontier Six Shooter remained a significant part of Colt’s legacy in the late 19th century.

This revolver has an exceptional bore and no significant damage. It is a candidate for a proper restoration or even a gun that is still good enough to take to the range. We believe the action fix will be as simple as a cleaning or spring replacement. Just another Colt that will put a smile on the face of the new owner.

– S. H.

Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter .44-40 WCF Double Action Revolver 1884
Colt Model 1878 Frontier Six Shooter .44-40 WCF Double Action Revolver 1884