Antique Colts For Dummies

Published on March 25, 2024
Duration: 26:56

This video provides an overview of various antique Colt firearms, presented by a firearms instructor who acknowledges his limited expertise in this specific area. He discusses models ranging from the Colt Paterson to later double-action and single-action models, highlighting key identifying features, historical context, and approximate market values. The presenter encourages viewer input to enhance collective knowledge about these historical firearms.

Quick Summary

Antique Colt revolvers offer a fascinating glimpse into firearms history. Key models include the Paterson, Walker, Dragoon, and various pocket and military pistols. Identification relies on features like caliber, barrel length, trigger guard shape, cylinder scenes, and inspector marks. Many cap-and-ball models were later converted to fire cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Antique Colts
  2. 03:03Flintlock Model 1836
  3. 05:24Colt Paterson and Colt Walker
  4. 07:01Colt Dragoon (Variation 1)
  5. 10:48Colt 1849 Pocket Pistol
  6. 13:19Confusing Baby Dragoon Conversion
  7. 15:16Pocket Pistol vs. Dragoon Confusion
  8. 17:02Colt Cavalry Officers Pistol
  9. 20:05Colt Artillery Models
  10. 23:27Early Double Action Colt
  11. 24:42Restored Colt Frontier Six Shooter
  12. 26:26Conclusion and Tulsa Gun Show

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Colt Dragoon and the Colt Walker?

The Colt Walker was a more powerful, earlier model with a larger cylinder, produced in limited numbers and prone to cylinder cracking. The Colt Dragoon was a more successful, slightly less powerful evolution, available in .44 caliber, with variations identifiable by features like oval cylinder bolt notches and square-back trigger guards on early models.

How can one identify a Colt Baby Dragoon?

The Colt Baby Dragoon, often referred to as the Model 1848, is typically a .31 caliber pistol. Key identifiers include a squared-off trigger guard and, on many examples, a roll-stamped scene on the cylinder, often depicting a stagecoach.

Are Colt Artillery models supposed to have matching serial numbers?

No, Colt Artillery models are generally expected to have mismatched parts due to being reworked. This is a common characteristic and not an indication of a problem, unlike the highly desirable all-matching numbers found on Cavalry models.

What is the significance of inspector proofs on antique Colt revolvers?

Inspector proofs, such as 'DFC' (David F. Clark) or 'A' (Ainsworth) on Cavalry models, indicate that the firearm was inspected and accepted by a government official. These proofs, along with US markings and cartouches, are important for identifying military-issue Colts and can affect their value.

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