Make: Colt
Model: Open Top Pocket
Serial Number: 2432
Year of Manufacture: 1871
Caliber: .22 Short and Long, Black Powder
Action Type: Single Action Side-Loading Revolver with Ejector
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 wood panels. The inside of each panel has "2432" hand-written. The grips have light handling wear with some scattered nicks and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine 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 80% of its metal finish. The balance is mostly at the front of the cylinder and rear of the barrel which has lost finish from firing. The frame's finish is thinning at some edges, exposing the brass under the plating. There is some wear along the ejector housing and flaking at the muzzle. Worn areas of the barrel and cylinder show some oxidation and light erosion. There are some light nicks and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in Fine 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 1871, the very first year of production, and still has a solid amount of its finish left! It is also a scarce variation with ejector assembly integral to the barrel. 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 quite 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!
