Make: Colt

Model: Third Model Dragoon, 2nd Generation "C" Series

Serial Number: 22717

Year of Manufacture: 1976 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup), ATF Antique

Caliber: .44 Caliber Ball

Action Type: Single Action Cap and Ball, Black Powder Revolver

Barrel Length: 7 1/2” Round

Sights / Optics: The front sight is german silver blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is notch in the hammer, visible when cocked.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece smooth walnut. The grip has no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue, Case Color & Brass

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The blue and case colored components show only light handling marks. The brass shows scattered discoloration but will polish bright. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes in a Colt wood presentation case with Colt-branded bullet mould, powder flask, cap tin, disassembly tool, and a key for the case.

Our Assessment: Colt officially regards the 2nd Generation production of their classic black powder pistols as original Colts. This pistol was produced by Colt’s Manufacturing, Co., not under license by the Colt Black Powder Arms Co. During early production Colt imported rough castings of parts from Italy and fitted the guns in the Colt Factory in West Hartford, CT. This is one such "C"-series Third Model Dragoon which appears to be unfired, though it does show minor handling wear. The Third Model Dragoon was the last in the series of improvements made to the original 1847 Walker revolver with a latch to positively retain the loading lever during firing, round trigger guard, and the now familiar rectangular cylinder notches with tapered lead-in grooves.

The revolver appears to have seen little if any use in the past 40-some-odd years with only light handling marks and some discoloration in the brass components which should polish up nicely. As time goes on, fewer and fewer Authentic Colt Revolvers in this high condition will exist, so don’t pass up the opportunity to own a Colt Third Model Dragoon as it would have looked new in the 19th century, complete with presentation case and accessories. Please see our photos and good luck!