Colt Single Action Army “Smokeless Frame” (1897) .38-40 – Mirror-like Bore

Colt Revolver – Single Action Army "Smokeless Frame"

Manufacture: 1897 – Caliber: .38-40 WCF – Features: "Smokeless Frame," mirror-like bore

A Colt Single Action Army "Smokeless Frame" manufactured in 1897, chambered in .38-40 WCF; a matching-serial-number collector's revolver featuring a remarkable mirror-like bore and exceptional mechanical condition.

History

The Colt Single Action Army, better known as the Colt Peacemaker, is one of the most iconic revolvers in American history. Introduced in 1873, it quickly became the standard sidearm of the Frontier, offered in numerous calibers and barrel lengths. Starting in 1892, Colt modified the frame design to incorporate a transverse cylinder pin screw; this version, known as the "Smokeless Frame," was constructed using improved steels designed to handle the advent of smokeless powder. Transitional models manufactured prior to 1900 are among the variants most sought after by collectors today.

Our Model

This Colt Single Action Army "Smokeless Frame" boasts a striking appearance and is in a particularly attractive state of preservation. The firearm appears to have undergone a high-quality vintage restoration—specifically regarding the barrel and certain mechanical components—while the case-hardening and several blued parts appear to be original. The cylinder retains a beautiful finish and crisp, sharp edges, indicating very limited use. The Colt markings, deeply stamped on the barrel and frame, remain perfectly legible. The serial number 174XXX, found on the weapon's major components, confirms it is a matching-numbers example manufactured in 1897. The original grips are perfectly fitted and in excellent condition, showing only light signs of use and a discreet "Z" mark on their undersides.

Mechanically, the revolver is in exceptional condition. The four distinct "Colt clicks" are crisp, the action is positive, the trigger pull is smooth, and the cylinder indexing is precise. The weapon exhibits no cylinder play and no barrel-cylinder gap. The firing pin has been replaced at some point. The 5½-inch barrel, chambered in .38-40 WCF, features a near-mint, mirror-like bore with deep, well-defined rifling.

This 1897 Colt Single Action Army (Smokeless Frame) combines a highly sought-after transitional manufacturing style with excellent overall consistency and remarkable mechanical condition, making it a prime piece for a collection focused on Old West Colt revolvers.

The weapon comes with its official Category D classification certificate, issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.