Make: Colt
Model: Open Top Pocket
Serial Number: 78513
Year of Manufacture: 1875
Caliber: .22 Short and Long, Black Powder
Action Type: Single Action Side-Loading Revolver
Barrel Length: 2 3/8"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the top of the barrel. The rear sight is a "V" notch integral to the hammer, visible when cocked.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth ivory panels. The inside of each panel has "78513" hand-written in pencil. The grips have even handling wear with some minor nicks and scratches. The right panel is cracked through vertically across the grip screw hole. Overall, the grips are in Good condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is well-defined. There is scattered pitting and erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 75% of its metal finish. The balance is mostly on the cylinder and rear of the barrel. The frame's finish is thinning at some edges, exposing the brass under the plating. There is some wear on the left of the barrel. Worn areas of the barrel and cylinder show some oxidation and light erosion. There are scattered nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to disfigured with a usable slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Colt Open Top Pocket Model Revolver was a single-action pocket revolver introduced by the Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company in 1871. Introduced a year before the Colt Open Top and two years before the Single Action Army and the New Line, the Colt Open Top Pocket Model Revolver was, alongside the Colt House Revolver, one of the two first metallic cartridge rear-loading revolvers manufactured by Colt. This Open Top was made in 1875 toward the end of production, and features factory engraving. Being a pocket pistol from the days of the ever-expanding Wild West, this pistol must have seen some things in its day, but it remains fairly well preserved. If you're a fan of Colt or 19th-century cartridge handguns, this should make for a great addition to your collection without taking up too much space. Please see our pictures and good luck in your bidding!
