Make: Armi San Marco, Italy

Model: 2nd Model Dragoon

Serial#: E57497

Year of Manufacture: 1997, BI Date Code

Caliber: .44

Action Type: Single-Action Percussion Revolver with 6-Round Cylinder

Barrel Length: 7.5"

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a brass blade fixed at the muzzle. The rear sight is a V-notch integral to the hammer, visible when cocked.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip panels are smooth wood. There are light handling marks and compressions. There are no chips or cracks. Square backed trigger guard. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color, Brass

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: The revolver retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete. There are a few minor handling marks. There is a scratch on top of the barrel. There is minor tarnish on the brass. The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, the revolver is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Armi San Marco 2nd Model Dragoon is an Italian reproduction of one of Samuel Colt's massive .44-caliber holster revolvers developed from the Walker pattern for mounted military service. The original Second Model Dragoon was a comparatively short-lived variation, produced principally around 1850-1851, retaining the distinctive square-back trigger guard while incorporating rectangular cylinder-stop notches. With its substantial frame, six-shot percussion cylinder, and 7 1/2" barrel, the Dragoon represents an important transitional stage between the enormous Walker and Colt's later, lighter Model 1860 Army.

This 1997 Armi San Marco reproduction is a particularly well-preserved example, retaining about 99% of its original blue, case-colored, and brass finish with only minor handling marks, a barrel scratch, and light brass tarnish. The smooth wood grips remain in Very Good condition, while the bright, sharply rifled 9/10 bore and correctly functioning action indicate little use. For the black-powder enthusiast or collector of Italian Colt reproductions, this is an attractive Second Model Dragoon that captures the imposing proportions and early martial character of Colt's original design while remaining in excellent cosmetic condition.