Freedom Arms Model 83 Premier Grade, Octagonal Rare 6 INCH Single Action Revolver & Box, MFD 1983
Make: Freedom Arms
Model: 83 Premier Grade
Serial Number: K0304
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .475 Linebaugh
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “FREEDOM ARMS MODEL 83 .475 LINEBAUGH / FREEDOM, WYOMING U.S.A.” The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. NO 4126953”. The underside of the frame is marked “K0304”. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “K0304”. The right side of the frame is marked “FREEDOM ARMS / PREMIER GRADE”.
Barrel Length: 6”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a replaceable ramped serrated blade. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are impregnated hardwood and are black in color. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Brushed Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: All Original
Bore Condition: The bore is Bright and the rifling is Sharp. There is NO erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are only very light handling marks on this revolver. There is a light mark on the left side of the barrel and a faint dragline on the cylinder and a couple of very faint marks on the left side of the frame which could just be part of the brushed finish. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are intact. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The five chambers of the cylinder are recessed. We did not fire this handgun.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This Revolver comes with its original blue one piece cardboard box with foam inserts. The box is in Very Good condition with some storage wear and oil staining. It also comes with the test target and the instruction manual for Model 83 5-shot revolvers and a warning card.
Our Assessment: This is a very nice example of a Freedom Arms Premier Grade revolver. This pistol was very well cared for and is in Excellent condition. It is chambered in .475 Linebaugh which is an extremely potent rimmed revolver cartridge developed by John Linebaugh in the late 1980s. The cartridge is based on the .45-70 Government case cut down to 1.5” and loaded with .475-inch-diameter (12.1 mm) bullets weighing from 320 grains (21 g) to 440 grains (29 g). This revolver would be great for hunting big game or as self-defense against large predators in the woods.
