Welcome to right this moment’s Photo of the Day! This uncommon Colt revolver showcases how even main producers experimented with designs that by no means made it to manufacturing. Serial quantity 4 of the Mannequin 1878 “Frontier” double motion, it incorporates a hammer shroud configuration that by no means reached mass manufacturing – basically making it a manufacturing unit experimental. Whereas the Single Motion Military will get all of the glory, Colt’s 1878 double motion was their try to supply one thing extra trendy for the frontier. About 51,000 have been made in comparison with over 350,000 SAAs, however they discovered favor with people who appreciated the short double motion set off for defensive use. What makes this gun actually particular is that weird hammer shroud – a metallic cowl over the hammer that’s hooked up by a single screw on the high of the body. Mixed with the spurless hammer, this configuration is probably going distinctive. Add in its non-standard 5 7/16″ barrel size and .455 caliber chambering (usually present in a lot increased serial quantity weapons), and also you’ve obtained one thing that screams “manufacturing unit experiment.” The London tackle on the barrel (“DEPOT 14 PALL MALL LONDON”) provides one other layer of curiosity, as these .455 weapons have been primarily supposed for the British army market. This revolver’s significance is confirmed by its provenance – previously a part of the legendary William Locke assortment and featured in Frank Sellers’ ebook the place it’s described as “probably distinctive.” For Colt collectors, serial quantity 4 with manufacturing unit experimental options represents the sort of gun that not often emerges from non-public collections.
“Hammer Shroud Colt London Mannequin 1878 Revolver Serial No. 4.” Rock Island Public sale Firm, https://www.rockislandauction.com/element/4094/84/hammer-shroud-colt-london-model-1878-revolver-serial-no-4. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.
Author | TheFirearmBlog
Author | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Previous soul, licensed gunsmith, printed creator, avid firearm historical past learner, and appreciator of outdated and distinctive weapons.
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