The Colt Single Action Army in .44-40 was named the "Frontier Six Shooter", after J.P. Moore's Sons ordered some in 1878. Single actions in .44-40 were particularly desirable in the West because they could use the same ammunition as the popular Winchester Model 1873 rifles and carbines. Since then the .44-40 WCF Single Action Army has found a special place in the hearts of Peacemaker collectors, especially those with rare special order features like this example. Colt factory records show that SAA barrel lengths ranged from 2 inches all the way up to 16 inches. However, 3, 4 3/4, 5 1/2, and 7 1/2 inches were the standard barrel lengths, making all other lengths built to suit custom orders. This Frontier Six Shooter has a special order 6 1/2 inch barrel and the extremely rare length is confirmed by the accompanying factory letter. This barrel length is certainly a rarity in Colt collecting as it is the only original 6 1/2 inch barreled SAA we have cataloged. To give perspective on the rarity of the 6 ½ inch barrel, the authors to “The Official Record of the Colt Single Action Army Revolver 1873-1895" only listed one .44-40 WCF chambered SAA in the 1-164100 serial number as having a factory 6 ½ inch barrel and it was engraved (page 340). The factory letter states the revolver was shipped to famed New York City retailer Hartley & Graham on March 18, 1896 with a 6 1/2 inch barrel in .44-40 caliber, nickel finish, and type of stocks not listed. The pearl grips with the large letter "L" attractively inscribed in script on both panels was likely provided by Hartley & Graham. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Colt Hartford address on top, and the iconic "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" marking is stamped on the left side of the barrel. The left side of the frame has the two-line patent dates followed by an encircled Rampant Colt. Matching serial numbers appear on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection

Fine. The barrel and ejector rod housing retain 60% original nickel plating, the cylinder retains 90% original nickel, the frame and hammer retain 50% original nickel finish, and the grip straps retain traces of original nickel with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The grips are also fine with a repair at the screw escutcheon and chip at the heal on the right panel and attractive colors. Mechanically functions fine, although hammer has only three clicks. If in the market for extreme Colt SAA rarities look no further than this documented, original 6 1/2 inch barreled Frontier Six Shooter revolver. A must have for the serious Colt collector.