Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model

Serial Number: 239235

Year of Manufacture: 1903

Caliber: .38 WCF (.38-40 Winchester Center Fire)

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder

Barrel Length: 5 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is “V”-notch integral to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered hard rubber with rampant colts in ovals at their tops. The grips have fairly even moderate wear, a little more notable in the right panel. Originally black, the grips are going to a brown color. There are some nicks and small scratches. The checkering is worn, but visible, well defined at the top. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Good-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color

Finish Originality: Original to the parts. Numbered parts match. The cylinder pin is a replacement.

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with sharp rifling. There is some minor erosion in the bore, mostly toward the muzzle-end. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 3% of its metal finish. There is a little finish in well protected areas and corners. Most surfaces have a mottle appearance with areas worn to white and others gone to a moderate patina. There is some scattered light surface oxidation and minor erosion. There are some light nicks and 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 about Good 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: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Bisley was introduced in 1894 as a target pistol. The name Bisley came from the famous firing range in Bisley, England. The model can be distinguished by the longer grip, the wider hammer spur, and the wider trigger when compared with the standard Single action Army. Bisleys were serial-numbered in the range of 156300–331916, in the same sequence as the SAA. This example is a Bisley Model chambered for the .38-40 Winchester cartridge with a 5 1/2" barrel. The revolver shows its age, but will display well with its "been there, done that" appearance. Please see our photos and good luck!