Make: Colt

Model: Single Action Army

Serial Number: 179571

Year of Manufacture: 1898

Caliber: .41 Colt

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “41 COLT”. The left side of the frame is marked with the two-line patent date. The bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and butt are marked with the serial number "179571". All markings remain clear and visible.

Barrel Length: 4 ¾”

Sights / Optics: The revolver features a standard blade front sight and a rear sight formed by a notch in the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The revolver is fitted with two-piece genuine pearl grips. Both grip panels exhibit tiny cracks near the butt and additional small cracks near the upper sections, particularly where the grip panels meet the frame. The grips remain attractive, showing honest age and wear consistent with careful use and handling.

Type of Finish: Originally blued and case colored. (Renickeled, now mostly lost)

Finish Originality: Refinished (previously renickeled, currently worn away)

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, and rifling is clearly defined. There is some scattered minor erosion in the bore along with stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: The revolver’s finish is now mostly a uniform brown patina, with traces of nickel remaining on the cylinder and small protected areas. The muzzle is worn white from handling, as is the tip of the trigger and parts of the trigger guard. Surface patina and handling wear are consistent throughout, highlighting authentic age and use.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Cylinder lock-up shows minor play, which is common in revolvers of this era. Trigger pull and hammer function remain crisp. As with all antique firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None included.

Our Assessment: This Colt Single Action Army, produced in 1898, is a classic antique revolver chambered in the less common but highly collectible .41 Colt cartridge. The firearm, originally Blued and case colored and subsequently renickeled, has since seen most of this finish worn away to a character-rich, brown patina, complemented by genuine pearl grips with age-related cracking. These authentic marks of use and age add genuine charm and history, making it an attractive piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Despite its cosmetic wear, this revolver retains clear factory markings and solid mechanical functionality. Revolvers from this era—especially those chambered in .41 Colt—are highly sought after due to their rarity, historical significance, and strong association with the late 19th-century American West.

Whether destined for display, collection, or careful shooting, this Single Action Army represents a genuine and appealing piece of Colt heritage.