Colt New Service Custom 45 LC 8″ Revolver 1917 British Proofed Chromed 1915
SOLD FOR: $1,000.00
LSB#: WY250429EH092
Make: Colt
Model: New Service (Custom)
Serial Number: 86478
Year of Manufacture: 1915
Caliber: .45 Colt (45 Long Colt)
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall custom ramp blade, and the rear sight is a U-notch that has been custom-installed and appears to be soldered or welded to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are aftermarket white Kerinite panels. They are cleanly fit with only minor handling marks and no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Chrome-Plated
Finish Originality: Custom Refinish
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with defined rifling and some softening to the edges. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 92% of its current chrome finish. There are light scratches, thinning at some high edges, and small areas of oxidation beneath the finish. The markings are faded from polishing before refinish, but most remain legible, new markings including “45” and “New Service & 1917” on the left side of the barrel. The left side of the chamber bears the partial remnants of a British BNP proof. The frame above the sideplate is marked with a “Broad Arrow” over “Crown” over “T9” over “E”, and “Crown” over “5G” over “E”. A faint Rampant Colt is visible on the sideplate. The front bow of the trigger guard is marked with an inverted triangle over “P”, and the rear bow is stamped “3”. A lanyard ring is installed. The ejector rod is a replacement. Overall, this revolver rates in about Very Good condition as refinished and custom-modified.
Mechanics: The action is exceptionally smooth in both single and double action. Lock-up is solid, timing is precise, and cylinder rotation is crisp. This revolver has clearly been tuned and possibly professionally worked over. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Plastic Colt Carry Case, and extra grips (black)
Our Assessment:
This Colt New Service began life in 1915, part of Colt’s legendary large-frame revolver line known for ruggedness and military use. The New Service would later see significant issuance in World War I chambered in .455 under British contracts. This particular revolver, marked “New Service 1917,” appears to have been British-proofed for service use and features remnants of Broad Arrow and crown markings indicative of Commonwealth military inspection.
Since then, it has been extensively customized: plated in chrome, fitted with custom sights (including a high ramp front and U-notch rear soldered to the frame), tuned for an exceptionally smooth action, and equipped with white Kerinite grips. The barrel, frame, and cylinder show signs of polishing, but key markings remain legible, making it both a shooter and a conversation piece. The bore is bright, and the mechanical performance is tight and refined. For collectors of custom wheelguns or historical revolvers with a unique personality, this New Service bridges the gap between military heritage and gunsmith artistry. Whether displayed or fired, it offers vintage Colt DNA with a dramatic post-service transformation. So bid high and bid firm. I highly recommend that you review the item’s condition using our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
