A 1871 .45 Colt Revolver

[awswilson2007]

I was just wondering if anyone knew an answer to this or knew or anyone who did. I know someone that has a 1871 .45 Colt Revolver that he wants to sell. We are not sure if it still fires. We don't want to do it ourselves because we want to find someone else that might actually know what they are doing. I have also read NOT to shoot it. The serial number is in the 6000's. For security reasons, we are not giving out the actual number. We have contacted Colt and the Springfield Armory. There are only 2 patent dates on it, not 3. We have not looked for the initial part yet as I just found out about this. The handle is almost in mint condition, there are very few scratches on it. I don't know much about percentages of the blue color, but it is definitely more blue than brown. Any suggestions and help would be great!!

 

[Jim Watson]

A Colt SAA with serial number in the 6000s was made in 1874.

It is a black powder era gun not built or tested for smokeless powder. If it is a nice example, it is worth enough money to not put any wear and tear on it by shooting, even with proper period black powder loads.

Everything else depends on originality and condition.
If you want more discussion here, it will take good clear closeup pictures of the gun, and its markings.

Colt will supply a factory letter giving the original configuration of the gun as to barrel length, finish, grips, caliber, and where shipped... for $100.

I don't know what Springfield Armory can do for you.

 

[arcticap]

Seek out the best experts in your area...

I noticed that you're located in Alabama which may be fortunate for you.
The NRA National Firearms Museum lists the Alabama Gun Collectors Association as being an affiliated organization which made it easier to locate.

While virtually every state has 1 or more gun collector associations which go by various names, these groups usually have a membership composed of honest & experienced collectors & dealers who are more than willing to offer expert advice, guidance and referrals to people who are seeking help. I would consider calling the contact person listed to see if he knows of an association member or a bona fide expert in your area.

Alabama Gun Collectors Association

HAROLD R. BOYD
(205) 349-2407

http://www.nationalfirearmsmuseum.org/collector/gun_club.asp

The Alabama Gun Collectors Association website lists an upcoming show for July 11 - 12 in Birmingham, AL which offers the possibility of pre-arranging a meeting with experts of your chosing or simply to search out a variety of random opinions from the many experts that will be assembled in one convenient location.

Their website also lists a mailing address and an email address as ways to contact them.

http://www.agcagunshow.com/

Good luck.