Approximately 1,000 of the "First Model" revolving rifles and carbines were manufactured in 1856-1859 in several barrel lengths. The design is essentially an upsized version of the Model 1855 "Root" revolvers. These are historically significant as the first long guns manufactured at Colt's Hartford factory. They are easily identified by an oiler and cleaning rod mounted on the left side of the frame (both absent on this example). This rifle has a dovetailed blade front sight, buckhorn notch rear sight (replaces removed frame sight), "{COLT'S PT./1856}" and "{ADDRESS COL. COLT/HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.}" on top of the barrel at the breech, bordered knurling on the hammer, double spur trigger guard, smooth buttstock with rifle buttplate, and the matching serial number on the barrel, cylinder, frame, and trigger guard tang.

Good as period modified, with a mix of attractively aged plum and gray patinas, and some patches of minor pitting and dings. The re-oiled weathered wood is good with some light handling marks, various cracks at the edges, and some filled in designs visible on either side of the wrist. Mechanically fine. This is a solid representative example of a scarce Colt Model 1855 First Model Sporting rifle and would make a fine addition to any American historic or Colt collection!