Make: Colt

Model: 2nd Model Dragoon F Series

Serial Number: 28281

Year of Manufacture: 1980-1982 / ATF Classification: Antique

Caliber/Gauge: .44 cap and ball

Action Type: Single Action

Barrel Length: 7.5"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass blade. The rear sight is a V-grooved hammer.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one piece smooth wood. The grip shows minimal handling marks and look fantastic. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: The barrel and cylinder are blued, the frame, loading lever and hammer are case hardened, and the grip frame is brass.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and appears to have been fired very little, if at all. There is light surface oxidation present in the bore from sitting in the box over the years. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its finish. The only notable marks are tarnishing on the backstrap from storage. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Matching box, and paperwork

Our Assessment: This revolver presents in Fine overall condition, retaining approximately 98% of its original finish, appearing to have seen more time in its included box than out, likely not fired. The metal surfaces are clean and evenly preserved with little handling evidence, and the revolver retains matching numbered parts, a key point of originality. The proportions and contours closely follow the historic Dragoon pattern, giving the piece strong visual presence and correct balance.

Mechanically, the revolver is excellent. The bore rates 9 out of 10, showing strong rifling and good interior condition with light storage blemishes. The action functions correctly with smooth hammer travel, proper cylinder indexing, and solid lockup. Timing and engagement are consistent, reflecting careful assembly and quality control typical of Colt's second generation percussion revolvers.

Historically, the Colt F Series percussion revolvers were produced to commemorate and revive Colt's nineteenth century black powder legacy using modern materials and manufacturing while maintaining traditional form. The 2nd Model Dragoon, originally developed for mounted troops, is among the most iconic large frame percussion revolvers ever produced. Second generation examples like this one are especially sought after due to their Colt manufacture, strong fit and finish, and close adherence to original patterns.

With high finish retention, matching numbers, correct mechanical function, and the inclusion of the matching box, this Colt 2nd Model Dragoon stands as a highly desirable and collectible example of Colt's modern era black powder revolver production.