Make: Colt

Model: Courier

Serial Number: 35276LW

Year of Manufacture: 1955

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver.

Barrel Length: 3”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade, integral to a base that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the topstrap. The topstrap is serrated and matte-finished for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with silver-colored Colt logo medallions. The inside of each panel has "276" hand-written in white. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued & Black Alloy Frame.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at some edges. The frame's alloy finish shows some slight discoloration, going to a blue color around some raised features. The action shows faint operational wear. There is a little stubborn black residue at the hinge and the front sideplate screw. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in Fine condition.

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 standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with a reproduction box and paperwork.

Our Assessment: According to R.L. Wilson’s ‘The Book of Colt Firearms: “The courier is one of the seldom-encountered cartridge revolvers produced by the Colt company. Advertised only in 1954 and 1955, it was quickly superseded by the Agent model. Both guns are the Cobra with stubbier butts. The courier was available in 32 and 22 calibers and with 3” barrel. A fully serviceable and useful weapon, it is a difficult gun for the collector to locate, because most specimens are in the hands of persons who are unaware of any special collector value or interest”. This is a second year production Courier, in .22 Long Rifle, showing about 96% of its blued and black anodized alloy finishes remaining; the pistol appears to have seen limited and responsible use. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, the action produces superb full lockup in all 6 chambers. With only about 3,000 made between the two calibers, this Fine condition .22 Courier will make a great addition to a Colt revolver collection and should also prove to be a fun plinker. Please see our pictures and good luck!