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- #Colt 2nd generation black powder serial numbers serial number#
- #Colt 2nd generation black powder serial numbers code#
Another distinguishing feature is the serial number range (4201 to 25099 for the "C" Series 1851 Navy and 20901 to 25099 for the "C" Series Third Model Dragoon).ĬOLT´S MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. The "C" Series has a beautiful bright "Royal Blue" finish while the "F" Series has a more durable dark "Colt Blue " finish. While the fit and finish of both series is of the highest quality, the difference is unmistakable. The 1851 Navy and Third Model Dragoon were the only models to be produced in both the "C" Series and "F" Series configurations. Both models were discontinued in late 1976 (no reference is made to them in either the 1977 Colt Catalog or Colt Price List). : "C" SERIES These Colt percussion revolvers were reintroduced in 1971 (1851 Navy) and 1974 (3rd Model Dragoon). The Colt Custom Shop also produced a limited number of special editions through the early 1990s from 2nd Generation production inventory.ĬOLT´S MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. All percussion models manufactured from 1971 through 1982, either by Colt or its subcontractor, are regarded as authentic Colt pistols and not Italian replicas. Additionally, Colt´s performed final inspection for all models. In all instances, these revolvers were manufactured in accordance with Colt´s strict specifications and quality control. Colt percussion revolvers produced by Iver Johnson had frames, center pins, nipples, and screws manufactured in the United States. Finally, from 1978 to 1982, Colt subcontracted both parts procurement and final production to Lou Imperato and Iver Johnson Arms in Middlesex, NJ. In both instances, these revolvers were assembled and finished in Colt´s facilities in Connecticut. Lou Imperato supplied these parts from 1974 to 1976. Initially, Val Forgett and Navy Arms provided these parts/components during 1971-73. Throughout the production years 1971-1982, these rough castings were produced in Italy and the reproductions were completed in the United States. Colt used subcontractors to supply rough castings for the manufacture of these black powder pistols. is the previous manufacturer of 2nd Generation Colt percussion revolvers located in Hartford, CT. The 'C' series only has two models 1851 Navy and 3rd Dragoon.Ĭolt´s Manufacturing Company, Inc. The 'F' series may seem more populat because there are 10 different models to choose from (1851 Navy, 1860 Army, 1861 Navy, 1862 Pocket Police, 1862 Pocket of Navy Caliber, Walker, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Dragoons, and the Baby Walker). Each series has a 'standard' production model and a variety of limited editions. Both the 'C' series (1971-1976) and the 'F' series (1978-1982) are equally collectable. No matter where the parts came from, or where it was assembled, the revolver went through the distribution channels of Colt and therefore are considered Colts and can be verified and Lettered by Colt. Zeke has provided good information on where these revolvers may have been manufactured. It is also interesting to note that the first “F” Series Colt revolvers were packed in the black boxes with a note that stated that they were produced at the Iver Johnson factory!ġ971 to 1982 were the years of the '2nd generation' Colt percussion blackpowder revolvers. When the Colt revolvers started being produced at Iver Johnson in 1977 the Iver Johnson marked replicas disappear. It appears that Iver Johnson was importing finished replica revolvers from Uberti at the same time that they were supplying parts to Colt.
#Colt 2nd generation black powder serial numbers code#
Now the interesting part, most replica Iver Johnson percussion revolvers have code dates between 1975-1978. In 1977 after Lou Imerato had assumed direct control of the parts issue from Val Forgett, the “F” Series were produced at the Iver Johnson factory in Middlesex, NJ. These early revolvers were assembled and finished at the Colt factory thus the “C” Series. Since Uberti had been producing the 1851 Navy since around 1959-60 and possibly the 1860 Army in 1962-63 for Navy Arms, Lou Imperato came to an agreement with Val Forgett to provide parts from Uberti for the Colt revolvers. It is also Lou Imperato who had purchased Iver Johnson. It was Lou Imperato who persuaded Colt to assume production of their percussion revolvers. "Very briefly, let’s also not forget the history of the Colt 2nd Generation “C” Series and “F” Series and their relationship to Iver Johnson.