Colt Thunderer .41 Colt 4.5” Single/Double Action Revolver MFD 1901 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,075.00
LSB#: 241207AA241
Make: Colt’s PT F.A MFG Co
Model: Thunderer
Serial Number: 156996
Year of Manufacture: 1901 (C&R)
Caliber: .41 Colt
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Ejector Rod
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “COLT D.A. 41” The left side of the frame is marked “PAT SEPT 19, 1871” The other markings are too faint to read. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT F.A. MFG CO HARTFORD CT U.S.A.” The bottom of the frame, trigger guard and butt of the frame is marked “156996”
Barrel Length: 4.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a groove milled into the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered hard rubber panels with colt rampants on both sides. There are light scratches and handling wear present. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is defined with light smoothing. The grips rate in Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with Case-Hardened Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writers opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 70% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light surface oxidation, rust freckling and some patina. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are faint. This revolver rates in Good overall condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double-action pull is relatively heavy, while the single-action breaks cleanly. The cylinder locks up well with minimal play. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Colt Thunderer was introduced in 1877 as one of Colt’s first double-action revolvers, chambered in the potent .41 Long Colt cartridge. This model became particularly well-known due to its use by notable historical figures such as Billy the Kid and John Wesley Hardin. The revolver’s compact size and potent caliber made it a popular choice for personal defense during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Manufactured in 1901, this Thunderer remains a great example of a Colt revolver from the Old West era. While much of its original finish has faded, the markings remain clear, and the mechanics are still functional. The checkered hard rubber grips, a signature feature of these revolvers, are intact and add to the gun’s vintage charm.
For collectors of Colt revolvers or those interested in historical firearms, this Thunderer is a great addition to any collection. With its classic design and historical significance, it represents a bygone era of American firearms history. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
