Make: Colt

Model: 1851 Navy "C" Series

Serial Number: 6543, matching parts

Year of Manufacture: 1971-1978 / ATF Classification: Antique

Caliber/Gauge: .36 cap and ball

Action Type: Single Action

Barrel Length: 7.5"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass bead fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch cut into the hammer nose.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one piece smooth wood. The grips show light pressure dings and handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Fine Plus 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 silver plated 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, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its finish. Most of the wear is on the grip frame from handling and operation. The rest of the metal finish only shows light surface scratches. 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: None

Our Assessment: This revolver presents in Fine overall condition, retaining approximately 97% of its original finish. The metal surfaces remain clean and evenly preserved with minimal handling evidence, and the revolver retains matching numbered parts, an important point of originality for Colt black powder collectors. The classic 1851 Navy profile is crisp and well defined, with proper proportions and strong visual appeal.

Mechanically, the revolver is excellent. The bore rates a perfect 10 out of 10, showing bright steel and sharp rifling with no visible wear. The action functions correctly with smooth hammer travel, proper cylinder indexing, and solid lockup. Timing and engagement are correct, reflecting Colt's quality standards for its modern percussion revolver production.

Colt's C Series percussion revolvers represent the company's later generation of black powder reproductions, produced with close adherence to original patterns while benefiting from modern manufacturing. The 1851 Navy remains one of Colt's most iconic percussion designs, prized for its balance, handling, and historical significance. C Series examples in high condition with matching numbers and strong bores are increasingly desirable to collectors.

With high finish retention, a perfect bore, correct mechanical operation, and matching numbered parts, this Colt 1851 Navy C Series stands as a highly attractive and collectible example of Colt's twentieth century revival of its legendary percussion revolvers.