Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army, Bisley Model

Serial Number: 284869

Year of Manufacture: 1906

Caliber: .41 Colt

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 “V”-notch integral to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece smooth walnut. The left panel has a large crack across the screw hole. The grips have scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. Overall, the grips are in Fair-plus condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is well defined, sharp where not interrupted by erosion. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 5% of its current metal finish. There are scattered spots of remaining finish. Most surfaces have worn to white or gone to a light patina. The ejector tab is bent forward notably. There are scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches with some more notable dings on the bottom-left of the barrel in front of the frame. There is scattered light oxidation and some minor erosion. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from tool marked with strong slots to disfigured with usable slots. The markings range from clear to worn and incomplete. Overall, this revolver is in about Good condition as refinished.

Mechanics: The hammer will fall from the safety notch and half-cock when the trigger is pressed. Otherwise, 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. These distinctive revolvers 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 Gen. Bisley, made in 1906 and chambered for .41 Colt with a 4 3/4” barrel. The revolver shows wear consistent with its age and was refinished at some time in the distant past. This will make a neat addition to a Colt or old-West revolver collection and will display well with its "been there, done that" appearance. Please see our photos and good luck!