Make: Colt, 2nd Generation Blackpowder “C” Series

Model: 1851 Navy

Serial Number: 10105

Year of Manufacture: 1973 (Colt Serial Lookup)

Caliber: .36 Caliber

Action Type: Single Action Percussion Revolver

Barrel Length: 7.5” Octagonal 

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a conical post fixed to the barrel above the muzzle. The rear sight is a “V”-notch integral to the hammer which can be used when the hammer is cocked.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one piece smooth wood. The grip shows a few faint handling and storage marks. The grip is in Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue, Case Color and Silver

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion and for the age, this bore rates a 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 96% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a light turn line on the cylinder, also some small scratches on the cylinder. There are some scattered handling marks and light tarnish on the silver plated sections. Particularly a spot on the trigger guard. There is finish loss at the muzzle. There is oxidation forming on the hammer. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. atfOverall, this pistol is in fine plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks in each position with barely perceptible play. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A zipper pouch is included.

Our Assessment: This is a "2nd Generation" Model 1851 Navy revolver made in 1973. While some forgings or small parts were supplied by subcontractors, all of the completed pistols were produced to Colt's strict specifications and quality control with final inspection performed by Colt, with the result that despite some work being performed outside the Colt factory, collectors tend to regard these revolvers as original Colts rather than reproductions. The Colt 1851 Navy was designed as a heavier, more robust version of the earlier Colt Pocket revolver. It has a six-shot cylinder and a 7.5-inch octagonal barrel. The revolver features a case-colored frame, a blued steel barrel, one piece walnut grip and N.Y. Colt address. The cylinder is engraved with a naval battle scene from the Mexican-American war. This 2nd Generation 1851 Navy has 96% of its original finish, strong mechanics and a bright bore and is in very fine overall condition. As time goes on, fewer and fewer Authentic Colt Revolvers in this condition will exist, so don’t pass up the opportunity to own a Colt 1851 Navy revolver as it would have looked new in the 20th century.