Colt Bisley SAA Revolver in Scarce .41 Colt and Rare Antique Pre-1898 Serial Number

This is something you don't see every day or even every year; a Colt Bisley with an antique serial number. Introduced in 1894 (around sn# 156,000 in the SAA series range), the Bisley was basically a refinement of the popular Single Action Army models with improved trigger, hammer, and grip shape especially suited for target use. They were produced from 1894-1915 but trying to find an early antique one made between 1894-1898 provides a narrow serial range of 26,000 guns which are well over 90% Single Action Army Revolvers. From personal experience and years of looking, most Bisleys seem to show up in the 200,000 and 300,000 ranges.

Well, we finally found this one and it was well worth the wait. The serial number is in the 177,000 range which dates its manufacture to 1898. Caliber is also something we don't see very often in .41 Colt with a 4-3/4" barrel, blued/case color finish, and checkered hard rubber grips. Left side of barrel is stamped "(BISLEY MODEL) 41 COLT. Top of barrel has the proper two-line Colt Hartford address. Right side of frame has two lines of patent dates from 1871, '72, and '75 next to the Rampant Colt logo. This horse logo is also found at the top of the grip panels.

Overall Condition grades to NRA Antique Very Good with strong traces of original blue in protected areas along the barrel, cylinder flutes, ejector housing. There are some silvered remnants of original case colors on the frame and hammer. Traces of original bright nitre blue on the trigger. All markings, knurlings, and screws are in very good condition. Original front sight has never been filed down. Nice Action with a good bore. The grips are in Good condition, checkering is worn but not worn smooth. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Nice looking example and one we only find once every few years. Antique Bisleys are about fifty times less common than an Antique Colt Single Action. They are hard to find. Antique, No FFL Required but some states and localels may vary.

Item# 571

$3,250