E. F. Phelps Heritage I .45-70 Govt. 8” 6-Shot Single Action Revolver, 1978
SOLD FOR: $1,700.00
LSB#: LSB250928MB052
Make: E.F. Phelps Mfg. Inc.
Model: Heritage I
Serial Number: 281
Year of Manufacture: 1978-1996 / Modern
Caliber: .45-70 Govt.
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate w/ hand Ejector.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked, “Heritage I” the underside is marked, “281” and the left side is marked, “E.F. Phelps Mfg.Inc. Evansville, Ind”. The barrel is marked, “45-70”.
Barrel Length: 8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped serrated blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square notch pinned to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth walnut panels. There are light handling marks throughout with a few small chips. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips rate inGood condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some moderate fouling and rust freckles in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout along with light spots of surface rust, mostly concentrated on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. There is heavy verdigris on a majority of the barrel and top strap. Overall, this revolver is in about Fair-Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: Produced in limited numbers from the late 1970s into the mid-1990s, the E. F. Phelps Heritage I revolver is one of the more unusual American large-bore wheelguns of its era. Built in Evansville, Indiana, these revolvers were engineered specifically to chamber the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge, a round traditionally associated with rifles like the Trapdoor Springfield and Sharps single shots. Designing a single-action revolver capable of safely handling such a cartridge required a heavily built frame, robust cylinder walls, and reinforced lockwork, and the Heritage I embodies that specialized engineering. Its substantial profile, side loading gate, and hand ejector all contribute to its distinctive appearance and functional character. The .45-70 Government cartridge, introduced in 1873, became one of the most significant American black powder rifle rounds, known for its deep penetration, heavy bullet weight, and adaptability for hunting and military use. By the 20th century it had transitioned into modern loadings, offering powerful performance far beyond traditional handgun cartridges. In a revolver platform, it delivers exceptional recoil and dramatic ballistic energy, making firearms like the Heritage I niche pieces intended for experienced shooters or collectors drawn to extreme big-bore handguns. Despite some exterior oxidation and verdigris, this example maintains a bright, sharp-rifled bore, indicating that the internal surfaces have been preserved well over time.
Revolvers chambered in .45-70 represent a very specific segment of American firearms history, where innovation and experimentation intersected with the demand for ever larger and more powerful handguns. The Heritage I is an uncommon and intriguing example of that period, offering collectors a piece that stands out for both its engineering ambition and its limited production history. With clear markings, strong mechanics, and its distinctive oversized design, this revolver remains a notable and conversation-worthy addition to any collection of unique American handguns. -R.E.
