Make: Colt

Model: 1855, Root

Serial#: 10868

Year of Manufacture: 1866

Caliber: .31 Caliber

Action Type: Single-Action Side-Hammer Percussion Revolver

Barrel Length: 3 1/2"

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a brass post fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a "V"-notch integral to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece smooth walnut. The top of the backstrap inlet has "0868" hand-written. The grip has light handling wear with some minor nicks and small scratches. There is a little finish loss around the edges on the bottom. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip is in Fine-plus condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original, numbered parts match.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered light erosion and some minor pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6+/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 65% of its metal finish. The frame retains generally strong finish. The balance is mostly in the cylinder and barrel which have areas going to a light patina. There is some scattered minor surface oxidation. There are a few light nicks and small scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine condition as Antique.

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

Box Paperwork and Accessories: This revolver comes in a vintage english-fit wood presentation case with compartments for the revolver and the included screwdriver, Eley cap tin, powder flask, and Colt bullet/ball mould.

Our Assessment: In 1855, Colt introduced a spur trigger revolver that featured a fully-enclosed cylinder, Colt's only percussion solid-frame revolver. These Model 1855 Sidehammer, or "Root" pocket revolvers, were named for Elisha K. Root, a noted inventor and holder of the sidehammer patent, who at that time was employed as Colt's Factory Superintendent and Chief Engineer. They were made in several different models and two calibers, .28 and .31. The .28 caliber proved more popular, with nearly double the quantity produced, making the .31 caliber revolvers desirable to collectors. Even more desirable are cased examples, such as this one. Especially given its age, this M1855 Root is in quite nice shape. Its included case and accessories will make this a fine addition to any Colt or percussion revolver collection. Please see our photos and good luck!