Make: Colt
Model: Second Generation Buntline Special
Serial Number: 21545SA
Year of Manufacture: 1958
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: Single Action Revolver
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked "COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.". The left side of the barrel is marked "COLT BUNTLINE SPECIAL .45". The bottom of the barrel is marked "BB 2600". The left side of the frame is marked "PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2,72 JAN. 19,75" and with the "Rampant Colt" logo. The underside of the frame at the grip frame is marked "21545SA". The left side of each portion of the grip frame is marked "21545SA" under the grips. The left of the trigger guard is marked with a "VP" in a triangle and "P". The front face of the cylinder is marked "545". The rear of the loading gate is marked "610", found again on the rear of the frame under the grip. The inside of each grip panel has "545" hand-written in white.
Barrel Length: 12"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a quarter round blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square groove in the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut panels. The grips have a few scattered light nicks and small scratches. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
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 revolver retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor marks. The action shows faint operational wear. The case color is vibrant. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Everyone should have a Colt Single Action Army, and this would be a nice one to add to any collection. Manufactured in 1958, this revolver is a Buntline Special chambered in the classic .45 Colt cartridge, the original chambering for the SAA and with a 12" barrel. It is in Excellent condition. The bore is pristine and appears unfired and the mechanics are strong. Serial numbers are matching and the Buntline Barrel number on the bottom of the barrel is correct for an early Buntline Special.
The Buntline designation originally referred to any SAA with a barrel longer than the longest standard length of 7 1/2". They were originally only available by special order with the pre-war guns being quite rare. When the Buntline Special was reintroduced as a standard configuration in 1957, starting in the 12400SA range, the barrels were marked with a "Buntline Barrel" number starting with BB 100 to prevent nefarious characters from pulling the barrels and installing them on 1st generation guns to pass them off as pre-war buntlines. Colt would eventually sell BB marked barrels separately, so it would be worthwhile for the winning bidder to contact Colt Archives for a letter to confirm this one’s authenticity.
This is going to be popular with collectors, a 2nd Generation Buntline Special in this high condition doesn’t come around every day. Please see our photos and good luck!
