Description

**ANTIQUE, NO FFL NEEDED**

The Colt SAA was the primary sidearm of the U.S. military forces between 1873 and 1892. While frequently called the “cavalry” model, this revolver was carried by non-commissioned officers in the regular army and the state militias, and issued to each man in the mounted units. A total of 37,063 were purchased by the U.S. government at an average cost of $12.50 each. Contract specifications called for 7 ½ in. barrel, .45 Colt caliber, government blue and color case hardened finish (a softer blue color compared to the darker and more brilliant civilian finish, which required a higher polish and was therefore more expensive), and one-piece, oil finished walnut grips. Each gun was stamped with the initial(s) of a U.S. ordnance principal sub-inspector and finally, with the letters “U.S.” on the frame after being approved for delivery to the National Armory at Springfield, MA.

When military production resumed in the 30,000 serial range, the principal sub-inspectors during this eleven year period were John T. Cleveland (J.T.C.), Henry Nettleton (H.N.), and David F. Clark (D.F.C.). Starting in 1876, the marking procedure changed from one last name initial to two or all three of the sub-inspector’s initials. Also in 1876, the third patent date was added to the left side of the frame in a third line.