Colt Model 1878 Double-Action Revolver, .44-40 Caliber – Excellent Mechanical Condition

Colt Revolver – Model 1878 Double-Action

Manufacture: 1891 – Caliber: .44-40 – Features: Excellent mechanical condition

History

The Colt Model 1878 is one of the iconic revolvers produced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company. Like the famous Colt Single Action Army, it was produced in numerous variants regarding caliber, barrel length, and finish—browned, blued, or nickel-plated. With its double-action mechanism, it represented a genuine innovation for its time. Highly appreciated in the American West, it never quite dethroned the legendary Peacemaker, though it remained a robust, modern alternative. This model—also known as the "Frontier" or "Omnipotent"—was manufactured between 1878 and 1905, with approximately 52,210 units produced. The .45 Long Colt caliber remains the most iconic of the American West era.

Our Model

This .44-40 caliber Colt "Frontier Six Shooter" double-action revolver features the desirable short-barrel configuration typical of the American West.

The metal parts still retain visible traces of their original finish, particularly on the frame. The hammer and trigger show beautiful remnants of "fire blue" finish. All factory markings are correct and perfectly legible—notably the two-line barrel address corresponding to the short barrel—confirming that the firearm has never been restored. The "Colt Frontier Six Shooter" marking is clearly present and correct for this model. Serial number 28XXX, stamped on the butt, indicates production in 1891. The original gutta-percha grips are in superb condition, perfectly fitted, and remarkably well-preserved. This is a Colt Model 1878 in the "Frontier Six Shooter" variant—a version highly prized for being chambered in .44-40 WCF, allowing the use of the same ammunition as the Winchester rifles of the era. Mechanically, the revolver functions flawlessly: the double- and single-action mechanisms are perfect, the cylinder indexes precisely, the hammer strike is crisp, and there is absolutely no play when the hammer is down. The 4¾-inch barrel, chambered in .44-40 (44 WCF), features a fine, light-grey bore with strong, well-defined rifling and shows only normal signs of use.

This fully functional Colt Model 1878 double-action revolver is undeniably one of the iconic firearms of the American Old West and represents an authentic, sought-after piece for any collection of antique American arms.

The firearm comes with its official classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.