Colt's Third Model Dragoon revolvers were manufactured between 1851 to 1861, and were the last of Colt's massive "horse pistols" descended from the famous Colt Walker. This revolver was manufactured in 1856, and features two unique slot cuts on the rear grip strap for use with an experimental canteen type shoulder stock (not included). The two slots have added filler sections at their bottom edges, likely factory performed. This exact example, serial number 15826, is pictured on page 56 of "The William M. Locke Collection" book, above a similar example, serial number 16045, pictured with a canteen type shoulder stock mounted to its backstrap. Another similar example (serial number unknown) is pictured with what is referred to as a "First Type" shoulder stock on pages 292-293 of "Colt Percussion Accoutrements, 1834-1873" by Robin J. Rapley. The Third Model Dragoon can be quickly distinguished by its round trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops. The Dragoons were used by the 1st and 2nd Dragoons and U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen in the West in the antebellum era and saw extensive use by both sides during the Civil War. These revolvers trace their lineage back to the 9 inch barreled Colt "Texas Paterson" revolvers used by the Republic of Texas Navy and the Texas Rangers in the 1840s and the Colt Model 1847 Walker revolvers of the Mexican-American War. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight, with the one-line "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY" legend on top. The left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT" in two lines. The cylinder has the Indian fight scene and the "Model U.S.M.R." marking. Matching full and partial serial numbers visible on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, wedge, cylinder pin, cylinder, loading lever and butt. Provenance: The William M. Locke Collection; The Andrew Singer Collection

Exceptionally fine, retains 85% plus original blue finish on barrel and cylinder, 80% plus vivid original case colors on the frame, loading lever and hammer, most of the bright original niter blue on the screws and trigger, and 85% plus factory refinished silver plating on the grip straps, with generally light handling marks and scratches, and some small patches of flaking on the barrel and cylinder with smooth gray and brown patinas on the balance. The markings are crisp overall. The grip is very fine with much of original varnish finish, some scattered minor dents and scratches, some light lower edge wear, some scuffs on the right showing evidence of a stock having been mounted, and tight fitment. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional Colt Third Model Dragoon with experimental cuts for use with a canteen type shoulder stock would make a fine addition to any early Colt collection!