Make: Colt

Model: New Line, .32 Caliber, Second Model

Serial Number: 14406

Year of Manufacture: 1872

Caliber: .38 Colt Rimfire, Short and Long

Action Type: Single Action Side Loading Revolver

Barrel Length: 2 1/4"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a "U"-notch integral to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood. The interior of each grip has "1468" hand-written. The grips have some nicks, scuffs and scratches with some finish wear, mostly at edges. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-plus condition as Antique and not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original, numbers match.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered light erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 5+/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 65% of its metal finish. There is some scattered finish wear, most notable on the right of the barrel and the right frame flat behind the cylinder. There are some light nicks, scuffs and scratches with minor oxidation, mostly in the worn areas. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear, including the etched panel on the left of the barrel. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good-plus condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt New Line Single Action Pocket Revolver represents Colt's entry into the competitive late nineteenth century market for compact cartridge pocket arms. Introduced in the 1870s, the New Line series was designed to compete directly with Smith and Wesson’s popular rimfire revolvers, offering a slim, easily concealed sidearm for carry during the post Civil War and early frontier periods. Though modest in scale, these revolvers were widely purchased and reflect Colt’s willingness to adapt to the rapidly changing firearms landscape of the cartridge era.

Chambered for .38 Colt Rimfire Short and Long, this New Line is the 2nd Model with longer flutes and the stop-notches moved to the rear face of the cylinder. The grips have been replaced, but the metal parts are serial-matched, retaining the majority of its original metal finish and strong mechanics. As an honest survivor from Colt's early cartridge period, this New Line revolver will make a wonderful addition to any collection. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck on your bid!