Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model

Serial Number: 301001

Year of Manufacture: 1907

Caliber: .38-40 WCF

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

Barrel Length: 4 3/4”

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

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece checkered black hard rubber panels with rampant colt in oval at their tops. The left panel appears to be a reproduction; its screw escutcheon has come loose from the panel. The right panel has broken at the bottom-front corner across the indexing stud and has been repaired. There are some light nicks and scratches. The checkering is generally well defined with a little more wear on the right panel. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition as repaired.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 5 out of 10.

Overall Condition: Exposed surfaces have worn to white or gone to a light patina. There is a little blue finish on the grip straps under the grips. There is 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 lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings range from clear to worn and incomplete. 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 requirements.

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 Colt Bisley can be distinguished by the longer grip, the wider hammer spur, and the wider trigger. Bisleys were serial-numbered in the range of 156300–331916, in the same sequence as the Single Action Army. This is an example of a 1st Generation Bisley, chambered for .38-40 Winchester with a 4 3/4" barrel. The revolver shows its age, but retains surprisingly strong mechanics. This will be a neat addition to a collection missing a Bisley. Please see our photos and good luck!