Make: Colt

Model: New Frontier Single Action Army

Serial Number: 14435NF

Year of Manufacture: 1981

Caliber: .44-40 WCF

Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate

Barrel Length: 7 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade integral to a serrated ramped base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch leaf in a fully adjustable base pinned to the rear of the top strap.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with gold-colored Colt medallions. The inside of each panel is marked 14435NF, matching the revolver’s serial number. There are a couple of faint scuffs and hairline scratches, mostly on the bottom faces, with some scattered light handling marks. The grips rate in Fine Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color

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, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its metal finish. The backstrap and frontstrap are marked with the serial number. The front face of the cylinder is marked “44-40,”. There are a few little nicks and scratches, most notably on the right side of the barrel in front of the ejector rod housing. There are a few spots of faint frost on the bright side of the hammer, hardly noticeable. Some areas on the frame show slight muting of the case color. There are a couple of tiny marks through the finish on the grip frame and trigger guard. The cylinder has a few tiny marks through the finish and a faint turn line. There are some scattered light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine Plus condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: In 1960, as America looked forward to a new era, Colt sought to introduce a revolver reflecting both tradition and innovation. The New Frontier was an evolution of the legendary Single Action Army, featuring a flattop design with fully adjustable sights, giving shooters enhanced accuracy while retaining the classic SAA frame. First introduced in 1961, the New Frontier was produced in limited numbers across two runs, the second from 1978 to 1982.

Chambered in .44-40, this revolver offers a balance of power and accuracy with its 7 1/2” barrel, making it an excellent choice for target shooting or hunting. The Colt Royal Blue finish and color case-hardened frame give it a refined, collector-worthy appearance. Despite some minor wear, this revolver remains in Fine Plus condition, showing little evidence of extensive use.

One nice detail of this revolver is that the inside of both grip panels is marked 14435NF, matching the serial number. This suggests the grips are original to the gun, adding to its authenticity and collector appeal.

Whether you're a Colt enthusiast, a collector of classic revolvers, or someone looking for a high-quality shooter, this New Frontier is an excellent choice. With its combination of precision, power, and craftsmanship, it’s a revolver that stands out in any collection.