Make: Colt

Model: Trooper Mark III

Serial Number: L16051

Year of Manufacture: 1976

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: 6-Shot DA/SA Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 6”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade pinned to a serrated ramped base that is fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the top strap. The top strap and barrel rib are matte for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels that envelop the front strap and leave the serrated back strap exposed. Each panel features an inset rampant colt medallion. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips rate in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blued w/ Case Colored Hammer

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn copper fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9+/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is faint operational wear. There are a few tiny marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.

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

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This revolver comes in a faux-wood cardboard Colt box with serial-matching label, two-piece styrofoam insert and factory paperwork not including manual.

Our Assessment: Frequently referred to as the "working-man's Python", the Trooper MK III was introduced in 1969 after some modifications to make the revolver less expensive to manufacture including the use of sintered parts, which were easier to fit and heat-treat, the use of a coil mainspring, which again didn't need as much hand-tuning and was cheaper to produce than the v-leaf spring used in the Python, and their new transfer-bar safety system, which prevented the ignition of a round without the trigger being depressed. This put a Colt-quality mid-frame revolver in the price range that the working man could afford as well as being more attractive to law enforcement agencies due to the new safety feature. The Trooper was the premier model in the MK III line with a shrouded ejector, full length rib and heavy barrel. This example is chambered for .357 Magnum with a 6" barrel. In high condition with its original box, this revolver will be a great option for both shooters and collectors. Please see our photos and good luck!