Colt DA Model 1878/1902 “Alaskan” Mirror bore Cal.45 – US Army

Colt DA Model 1878/1902 “Alaskan” – US Army

Manufactured: 1900 – Caliber: .45 Colt – US Army – Mirror bore

The Colt Double Action Model 1878/1902 “Alaskan” in .45 Colt is a rare military version of Colt’s double-action revolver. This 1900 example retains much of its original finish and features excellent mechanical condition together with a mirror-bright bore and well-defined rifling.

History

The Colt Double Action Model 1878 was manufactured from 1878 to 1905, with more than 51,000 examples produced. Colt’s first double-action revolver designed for powerful cartridges such as the .44-40 Winchester and .45 Colt, it represents an important development in the history of American handguns.

A military version of the Model 1878, designated the Model 1902 in .45 Colt and also known as the “Alaskan” or “Philippine Constabulary Model,” was produced in approximately 4,600 examples for the US Army. This military configuration is particularly recognizable by its extended trigger and large trigger guard. Contrary to the popular belief that this design was intended to allow firing while wearing gloves in extremely cold conditions, it was actually related to the requirements of the strengthened hammer spring and facilitated double-action operation. Today, the Colt Double Action Model 1878 in its Model 1902 military configuration remains a particularly sought-after revolver among collectors of antique American firearms.

Our Model

This Colt Double Action Model 1878/1902 “Alaskan” US Army issue revolver, manufactured in 1900, remains in excellent condition with much of its original blue finish preserved. The trigger and hammer retain their characteristic fire-blue finish. The revolver retains its original Colt markings together with the military inspectors’ marks, including “R.A.C.” and “J.T.T.”, while the “U.S.” marking is stamped on the frame. The cylinder also bears the “R.A.C.” inspector’s mark. The 47XXX serial number, located beneath the grips, corresponds to a 1900 production date. The original grips remain in excellent condition and are correctly fitted. The revolver also retains its lanyard ring beneath the grip, characteristic of the military configuration.

Mechanically, the revolver is in excellent working order, functioning properly in both single and double action, with a strong, positive hammer stroke. The 6-inch .45 Colt barrel has a mirror-bright bore, well-defined rifling and only minor signs of use.

This US military Colt combines a rare configuration with well-preserved original finishes, excellent mechanical condition and a mirror-bright bore, making it a representative example of Colt’s military double-action revolvers.

The firearm is accompanied by a certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House classifying it as a Category D firearm.