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Unusual Colt Model 1878 Frontier Double Action Revolver with Ainsworth-Inspected Barrel and 45 Boxer

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military / Hand Guns - Revolvers Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:800.00 - 1,600.00 USD
Unusual Colt Model 1878 Frontier Double Action Revolver with Ainsworth-Inspected Barrel and 45 Boxer
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Unusual Colt Model 1878 Frontier Double Action Revolver with Ainsworth-Inspected Barrel and 45 Boxer Markings

Manufactured in 1879, with a mix of components and markings that are not typically seen on a Frontier revolver. The barrel, finished in blue in contrast to the rest of the revolver, appears to be an Orville Ainsworth inspected Colt Single Action Army barrel subjected to "Artillery" conversion, with the one-line Hartford address bracketed by "+"s on top, "P" and "A" inspection marks, numbered "3815" with a 5 1/2 inch length and an early pattern bolster hole. The frame, ejector housing, cylinder and trigger guard are nickel finished, with the cylinder (bored for long, 45 Colt style, chambers) marked "P" and "T", and the trigger guard marked "45 CAL/B", the traditional designator for Colt's chambered for 45 Boxer, aka 450 Adams. The Boxer cartridge, popular with British citizens and serving as a reserve military cartridge as late as World War One, was a factory option from Colt, most often seen on revolvers sold through the London Agency. Fitted with a lanyard ring and a pair of Rampant Colt imprinted grips.

Manufacture: Colt
Model: 1878
BBL: 5 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 45 Long Colt
Finish: blue/nickel
Grips: hard rubber
Serial Number: 1644

Fair as assembled, with traces of the original blue finish on the barrel and 30% of the original nickel, showing a mixed brown patina on most components, areas of gray, and mild spotting. The left side of the frame has been hand-marked "T.K.", likely by a previous owner. The grips are fair, having been worn smooth and showing minor shrinkage. Mechanically needs work.