Make: Colt
Model: 1883 Hammerless
Serial Number: 1322 (matching numbered parts)
Year of Manufacture: 1886 / ATF Classification: Antique
Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, Black Powder Only
Action Type: Side by side, top break, hammerless dual non-selective triggers, extractor
Choke: Left: Full, Right: Modified, Both Fixed
Barrel Length: 30"
Sights/Optics: There is a brass bead at the muzzle.
Weight: 7 lb., 6.8 oz.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with semi-pistol grip, straight comb, unmarked initial plate in the belly, and checkered black hard rubber Colt buttplate. The forend has an inlaid triangular ebony insert at the nose. The furniture shows mostly minor pressure dings. There is a small surface scuff on the lower left side of the buttstock. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. The LOP measures 14.25" and 13.25" from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. The plate has only light handling wear. Drop at comb is approximately 1.875", drop at heel 3.25". Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Damascus & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There are large freckles of oxidation throughout the bores with a few small pits. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 7.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 70% of its metal finish. The barrel finish has scattered wear, but retains strong damascus patterning in most areas. The receiver case color has faded, but is still lightly visible. There is some scattered minor surface oxidation and scratches. Some of the stock resin is visible on the edges of the receiver where it meets the wood. The action shows standard operational wear. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine condition as an antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock to the receiver with no play. The safety engages automatically when the barrel set is opened. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This Colt Model 1883 Hammerless was manufactured in 1886 and qualifies as an Antique firearm. Produced by Colt, the Model 1883 was Colt's first successful hammerless side-by-side shotgun and represented the company's entry into the premium sporting shotgun market. Built with high-quality materials and exceptional workmanship, these shotguns competed with the finest American and English doubles of their era. This example is accompanied by a Colt letter documenting shipment on September 25, 1886, to the prominent sporting goods dealer B. Kittredge & Co., adding valuable historical provenance and collector appeal.
Chambered for 12 Gauge with 30 inch Damascus barrels, this side-by-side shotgun exemplifies the craftsmanship of late 19th-century American gunmaking. The refinished walnut furniture rates in Fine condition with an attractive appearance and only light handling wear. The shotgun retains approximately 70% of its Damascus barrel pattern and case-colored finish, preserving much of its original visual character. Overall, this shotgun rates in Fine condition as an antique and represents a desirable Colt Model 1883 Hammerless with documented factory provenance, solid mechanical condition, and excellent collector appeal. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
