Make: Colt

Model: New Line 38 Caliber Revolver, 1st Model

Serial Number: 361

Year of Manufacture: 1874

Caliber: .38 Short & Long Centerfire

Action Type: Single Action, Side-Loading Revolver

Barrel Length: 2 1/4"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a "U"-notch integral to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth rosewood panels. The grips have scattered small nicks and scratches with a few more notable dings. The left panel has a small chip at the point. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-Plus condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright. The rifling is sharp where not interrupted by erosion. The bore has some light erosion and pitting. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 6 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 25% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. There is evenly scattered minor oxidation and areas going to a light patina with strongest finish in protected areas or around raised features. There is an odd void in the grip strap under the right grip panel, apppearing to be from an inclusion in the forging. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings range from clear to worn, but legible. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition as Antique.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Just a few years after the Clover Leaf House Model revolver, the New Line was introduced almost simultaneously with the classic Single Action Army. With a smaller frame and chambered for smaller rimfire and center-fire cartridges, the New Line took the repeating capability of their earlier pocket percussion revolvers and shrunk it down to a size closer to their single-shot derringers. This example is a .38 centerfire produced in 1874. It has serial-matching parts and retains about 25% of its original blue and case color finish. It is also interesting due to its British proof marks, indicating that it has been across the pond and back. The mechanism is in great shape, still locking up well and functioning properly. This is just a great example of the New Line revolver 1st Model and, with only about 5,500 made between both the 1st and 2nd models, a nice find for the dedicated Colt collector. Please see our photos and good luck!