Colt Third Model Dragoon Revolver, .44 caliber, 7-1/2" barrel, blued, brass, bright steel and color case hardened, GCA serial prefix, by Colt - Second Generation
Known as the COLT Third Model Dragoon revolver, this revolver has a bright steel barrel and cylinder with a color case hardened frame and loading lever. This revolver has the GCA serial number prefix and was part of a batch intended for engraving for one of the Giuseppe Garibaldi Special Edition models, but was returned to Colt without engraving. It is estimated that 94 were returned in this condition. These are collectible as-is, or can be used as a blank canvas for engraved presentation guns. Produced during the earlier Colt Second Generation, this revolver include the black factory box. This Colt brand revolver has been stored in the box for a long time and does have some small surface pitting on the bright finish on the barrel. The color case hardened finish has mellow gray blue tone.
Our top view shows the blank cylinder and 7-1/2" octagon to round barrel. The pistol is marked ~ ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY ~ on the top flat of the barrel. The front sight is a brass blade. Our bottom view shows the color case hardened loading lever, and the polished brass triggerguard with some patina from long storage in the box. .
If you decide to fire this revolver, the factory recommends .451" round balls, and each chamber will hold 35 grains of FFFg powder. We recommend .454" balls, and 21 grains of GOEX FFFg powder, for best accuracy and best compression. Cover each ball with a small amount of our #LUBE-SPG bullet lubricant grease. Despite your best efforts, this revolver will need to be cleaned after 12 or 18 shots. Remove the wedge, barrel, and cylinder. Wipe the face of the cylinder, and wipe the cylinder pin. If you continue to load and fire a badly fouled revolver, the effort needed to cock and fire the gun will become greater, causing the small internal hand, spring, and cylinder latch to become worn and slightly damaged. Continued abuse will cause the cylinder and latch to become out-of-time. Simple cleaning and maintenance will prevent problems.
A Colt brand Third Model Dragoon revolver with GCA prefix intended for engraving as Giuseppe Garibaldi Special Edition, but sold as in-the-white guns. Order it for a ten day visual inspection. You will be delighted. Else if it does not fit you, return it in unfired condition for same-day refund. Postage is your only risk, when you order any one-of-a-kind gun from Track, whether new, used, or antique.
