Make: Colt
Model: 1851 Navy "C-Series" The Shooter Model, 2nd Generation
Serial Number: 24342
Year of Manufacture: 1978
Caliber: .36 Caliber Percussion
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with a Six-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY." The left side of the frame is marked "COLT’S PATENT." The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Naval Battle scene. Standard Colt markings appear throughout, consistent with the 2nd Generation.
Barrel Length: 7.5” Octagonal Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch in the hammer, which aligns with the front bead when cocked.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth wood, well-fitted to the frame. They show no evidence of use or wear and remain in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Barrel & Cylinder, Case Hardened Frame, Brass Grip Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, with sharp rifling, no pitting is visible. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its original factory finish. The case-hardened frame is vibrant, and the blued barrel and cylinder remain deep and rich. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings remain crisp and clear. The cylinder retains a crisp and well-defined Naval Battle roll engraving with no signs of handling wear. The percussion nipples are in good shape, and the cylinder safety pins remain intact. Overall, this revolver is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all black powder firearms, a thorough inspection and cleaning may be necessary before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver ships with a Wooden display case, Powder Flask, Cap Can, Bullet Mold, and Screwdriver adding to its collectability.
Our Assessment: This Colt 1851 Navy is part of Colt’s 2nd Generation, a faithful reproduction of the legendary Samuel Colt-designed percussion revolver. Manufactured in 1978, this revolver showcases the same craftsmanship and detail found in original 19th-century models, featuring a blued barrel, case-hardened frame, and a beautifully engraved cylinder depicting a Naval Battle scene. The Colt 1851 Navy was one of the most widely used revolvers of the 19th century, favored by soldiers, lawmen, and frontiersmen alike. Though production of the original models ceased in 1873, the 1851 Navy's reputation remains unmatched.
This factory-authorized reproduction by Colt continues the legacy with exceptional craftsmanship and historical accuracy. This particular revolver remains in astonishing condition, showing no evidence of use, making it a highly desirable collector’s piece. This is ironic as it is one of "The Shooter Model", which had a brass grip frame instead of the standard silver-plate. Only 500 of these revolvers were made in 1978. The inclusion of a wooden display case further enhances its value. For Colt collectors, black powder enthusiasts, and those who appreciate classic American firearms, this 1978-manufactured Colt 1851 Navy is a must-have piece that bridges the gap between history and modern craftsmanship. Whether displayed, preserved as an investment, or enjoyed as a historically accurate shooter, this is a fantastic addition to any collection.