The Colt Frontier Six Shooter is the .44-40 WCF variant of the Colt Single Action Army revolver, introduced in 1878 to provide a revolver that shared ammunition with the Winchester Model 1873 lever action rifle. This commonality of cartridge between rifle and revolver was a significant practical advantage on the American frontier, and Colt distinguished the .44-40 chambering with the "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" roll mark on the left side of the barrel. The Single Action Army operates on a fixed cylinder, single action mechanism with a gate-loaded cylinder and a manually operated ejector rod housed beneath the barrel. The revolver uses a half-cock notch on the hammer as a safety position. First generation Colt Single Action Army revolvers were produced from 1873 through 1940, and the Frontier Six Shooter designation was applied throughout much of that production run whenever the revolver was chambered in .44-40 WCF. The 4-3/4 inch barrel length was one of three standard barrel lengths offered alongside the 5-1/2 inch and 7-1/2 inch configurations.

This example was manufactured in 1891, placing it within the first generation of Single Action Army production. The revolver has been refinished, featuring a blued finish on the barrel, cylinder, and grip frame, with a color case hardened frame and hammer. Serial numbers are matching on the frame, grip frame, and butt of the grip. The cylinder is marked with a "5". It does not feature an explicit caliber marking, although The revolver is fitted with stag grips. No additional accessories included.

Consistent with an antique black powder firearm, the bore bears some erosion and pitting, though the rifling remains defined. There is some light rust to parts of the cylinder and ejection rod housing.

Markings

The left side of the barrel is roll marked "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER." The top of the barrel is marked "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A." The left side of the frame is marked with patent dates: "PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871. JULY 2, 72. JAN. 19, 75."

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company
• Model: Frontier Six Shooter (Single Action Army)
• Date of Manufacture: 1891
• Caliber: .44-40 WCF
• Action: Single action
• Barrel: 4-3/4 inches
• Frame: Carbon steel
• Finish: Blued & CCH
• Grips: Stag
• Sights: Blade front, fixed notch rear
• Safety: Half-cock notch
• Capacity: 6 rounds