Make: Colt
Model: Third Model Dragoon, 2nd Generation
Serial Number: 31081
Year of Manufacture: 1980-1982
Caliber: .44 Caliber
Action Type: Single Action Cap & Ball Percussion Revolver with 6-Shot Cylinder
Barrel Length: 7 1/2"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass blade mounted at the muzzle. The rear sight is the traditional notch in the hammer, visible when cocked.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fitted with one-piece smooth walnut grips. The grips remain exceptionally well preserved with no chips or cracks and only the faintest handling evidence. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued barrel and cylinder. Case Color loading lever, frame, and hammer. Brass trigger guard and grip frame.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 98% of its original finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. The case color is vibrant and the blue is deep. There are a few minor handling marks and the front of the cylinder is introducing some faint oxidation. There is faint operational wear on the loading lever. The markings are clear. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
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 standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver includes a blue velvet lined Colt wooden display case with powder flask, two cavity bullet mould, cap tin, and key.
Our Assessment: This Second Generation Third Model Dragoon from Colt represents the 1980–1982 factory revival of one of the most imposing percussion revolvers of the mid-19th century. Based on the massive .44 caliber Dragoon lineage developed from the Walker Colt, the Third Model is characterized by its heavy frame, 7½” barrel, square-backed trigger guard, and robust loading lever assembly designed to withstand full-power black powder service loads. This example captures the classic martial aesthetic in full form with blued barrel and cylinder, case-colored frame, hammer, and loading lever, and brass trigger guard and backstrap, presenting the unmistakable visual weight and proportions that made the Dragoon a frontier-era workhorse and later a collector icon.
Condition is Excellent throughout, showing approximately 98% finish retention with vibrant case colors and strong bluing, complemented by only minor handling marks and light, developing oxidation at the front of the cylinder along with faint operational wear on the loading lever. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating 10/10 in this writer’s opinion, and mechanics function correctly. The revolver is elevated further by its complete Colt presentation case, including flask, two-cavity mould, cap tin, and key, making this a particularly complete and display-ready cased set that will appeal strongly to Colt collectors and black powder enthusiasts seeking a high-condition Second Generation Dragoon with full accessories.
