(A) US COLT ARTILLERY MODEL SINGLE ACTION ARMY

Typical of the guns that went through the re-build US arsenal program beginning in 1890. This gun began service as a "DFC" (David Clark) inspected Colt in 1885 that would have matching numbers and a 7-1/2" barrel in .45 caliber with one piece walnut grips. After its return to the arsenal, it was stripped and all worn out parts were discarded, all acceptable barrels were cut to 5-1/2" with front sights reset and assembled from parts bins of acceptable parts regardless of era or serial number. These were then issued for use to US troops, mostly to those fighting in the so called Banana Wars and the War with Spain. The frame is "DFC" inspected number 115038, the trigger guard is number 5108 with Ainsworth inspection mark, the backstrap is number 50251 with "HN" (Henry Nettleton) stamp. The cylinder is also Nettleton inspected number 9494. The barrel is number 2256 with no visible inspector stamp. The left side of the frame has the US stamp. The right side grip cartouche outline is visible but no longer readable. CONDITION: This gun saw some use but not a lot and remains in excellent condition. The barrel retains at least 70% of the arsenal applied high polish blue with sharp legends and wear on sides from holster. The cylinder retains most of the blue in the flutes and about 40% on its perimeter. The frame and hammer still retain approximately 75% of the case colors, some bright. The straps and guard retain a flash of blue but are basically a smooth patina. The grips are excellent with some marks. The action is tight as new and the bore is sharp with some light frosting. A far above average Artillery Colt Model. Barrel Length: 5 - 1/2" Caliber/Bore: .45 FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Colt Model: Single Action Army Serial Number: 115038